§ 54. Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Defence why he refuses to disclose the value of arms supplied by Great Britain to individual countries; and if he will make an exception in the case of Portugal, in view of their breach of sanctions against Rhodesia.
§ Mr. HealeyAs explained several times in the past, to disclose details about arms sales could indicate some aspect of the purchasing Government's defence 418 arrangements. In the case of Portugal, the export of defence equipment is restricted to its reasonable requirements as a N.A.T.O. ally.
§ Mr. HooleySince Portugal is pursuing a policy which is deliberately calculated to undermine a major aspect of Her Majesty's Government's foreign policy—namely, sanctions against Rhodesia—would it not be in the public interest for us to be told exactly what arms are being supplied to Portugal to enable that country to carry out this policy?
§ Mr. HealeyThe policy of Her Majesty's Government is in line with the Security Council Resolution of 31st July, 1963. We do not supply arms for use in Portugal's overseas territories, nor is there any evidence that arms have been transferred to Rhodesia.
§ Mr. Clark HutchisonIs a deal likely to come off with the Argentine for naval or other ships? If so, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this may have something to do with the future of the Falkland Islands?
§ Mr. HealeyThat supplementary question has absolutely nothing whatever to do with the Question, but the hon. Gentleman may be interested to know that we are in contact with the Argentine Government about the possible sale of ships.
§ Mr. Michael FootCan my right hon. Friend say how recently there was a review of the question of whether any arms supplied to Portugal were being used in South Africa, particularly in view of the most startling revelations in The Times recently of the co-operation among the Portugal, Rhodesia and South African Governments in their pursuit of the suppression of the people of Africa?
§ Mr. HealeyThese matters are continuously under review.
§ Mr. GoodhewIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the people of this country who are being required to pay yet another £923 million a year in taxation to try to get the balance of payments right will take a very poor view indeed of any further Government restrictions on sales abroad?
§ Mr. HealeyI have always been slightly doubtful of the hon. Gentleman's qualifications to speak for the people of this country.