§ 12. Mr. David Heath (Somerton and Frome)What considerations she took into account in formulating her proposals to amend procedures on arms export licences. [49383]
§ Mrs. RocheThe White Paper on strategic export controls was published on 1 July. In drawing up the proposals contained in it, the main consideration has been to develop the right legislative and procedural framework for effective, clear and accountable strategic export controls. The Government have taken account of the recommendations contained in the Scott report and the views expressed by the 38 respondents to the consultation document published by the previous Government. Views on the proposals are invited by 30 September.
§ Mr. HeathDoes the Minister recognise that there is deep concern about the confusion of having six Departments of State involved in arms control, that we have succeeded in selling arms to regimes that are deeply unpleasant and sometimes deeply insolvent, and that there is a lack of transparency and clarity which means that the outside world cannot tell whether a licence is issued for an armoured car or a packet of washers? Is it not time to review the arms control regime completely and produce something that is open to proper scrutiny, and particularly scrutiny by Members of this place?
§ Mrs. RocheI should be grateful if the hon. Gentleman would take the time to read the White Paper in detail. It responds to the criticisms made in the Scott report, which the Government are committed to dealing with. That is why my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary published the criteria that he did a year ago and why the Government are committed to much more transparency, which is why we are committed to publishing an annual report on this vital work.