Segar will work with the U.S.-led Office of Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance and other organizations, and will "maintain contact with emerging political figures within Iraq, " Straw said.

CNN: Bush calls end to 'major combat'

Christopher Segar -- who was deputy head-of-mission at the British Embassy in Baghdad before it closed 12 years ago -- will be the head of the new British office, Straw said in a written statement.

CNN: Bush calls end to 'major combat'