Emma Hope

Events of 2003back to top

Current affairs

Biological weapons expert, David Kelly commits suicide after being questioned by the government over allegations that the Iraq weapons dossier had been 'sexed-up' by the government. The Hutton Inquiry into Kelly's death concluded that he had taken his own life and that the BBC's claim was unfounded, leading to the Director General's resignation. No stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction were found in Iraq after the 2003 invasion.

Art and science

England wins the Rugby World Cup in the final against Australia. The match was exceptionally close with Australia equalising with just two and a half minutes of extra time remaining. 21 seconds before the end of the match, England's fly-half Jonny Wilkinson scored a drop-goal, winning the match and the tournament.

International

America leads an invasion of Iraq after accusing the country of building Weapons of Mass Destruction. Initial success was achieved with the toppling of Saddam Hussein's government and George Bush's declaration of the end of major conflict - 'Mission Accomplished' - within two months of the invasion. The conflict, however, was not over, and British and American troops continued fighting with insurgents to stabilise the country.

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