The formation of the state of Iraq has attracted considerable historical attention in recent years. This paper examines how the UK Parliament sought to influence government policy on the formation of the Iraqi state and the question of Kurdish autonomy. It demonstrates that violent uprisings and political fragmentation within Iraq made it very difficult for the British authorities to find a stable, lasting solution. British MPs soon became increasingly frustrated with the cost of the military occupation and sought a settlement that would allow Britain to scale back its commitments in the region. The final shape of the Iraqi state was a result of necessary and pragmatic compromises designed to promote regional stability.