HC Deb 26 June 1962 vol 661 c942
29. Mr. Brockway

asked the President of the Board of Trade what licences have been issued for the provision of Handley-Page bombing aircraft to the Government of the Republic of South Africa.

Mr. N. Macpherson

It is not the practice to disclose details of export licences for the supply of defence equipment to other Governments.

Mr. Brockway

Has the hon. Member seen the statement in the Press that licences have been given for the provision of these bombers? Will not the Government consider adopting a policy of ensuring that no more armaments will be sent to the Republic of South Africa while it continues its present policy of apartheid?

Mr. Macpherson

I am not responsible for statements that appear in the Press. Questions of Her Majesty's Government's policy on arms exports to South Africa should be referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.