HC Deb 18 July 1966 vol 732 cc14-5
15. Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that British arms are still being imported into Iraq and that they are being used to destroy Kurdish life and culture; and whether in these circumstances he will prohibit the sale of British arms to Iraq in the future.

Mr. Padley

I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the written reply which my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster gave on 11th July to my hon. Friend the Member for Salford, West (Mr. Orme).

Mr. King

If selective arms sales can be made an instrument of foreign policy in Vietnam, why not in Iraq? Is it not a fact that both the British Government and the League of Nations gave specific assurances to the Kurdish people which have never been fulfilled? Is it not a fact, further, that they will accept no agreement unless there are international guarantees against the brutality now being imposed upon them?

Mr. Padley

Britain is a traditional supplier of arms to Iraq. We are not the only supplier. It is not the practice to explain in detail what transactions take place. The hon. Gentleman will no doubt be glad that on 29th June the Prime Minister of Iraq announced a programme for the restoration of normal conditions in Iraq. This programme has received the support of the Kurdish leadership, and Her Majesty's Government hope that peace can be restored.

Mr. Thorpe

Is there not a case for suggesting that the Government's super salesman for arms is perhaps being too effective? Will not the hon. Gentleman look at this matter again?

Mr. Padley

I am sure that these arms were supplied before the super salesman was appointed.

Mr. King

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.