§ Mr. Masonasked the Lord Privy Seal what discussions he has had with the United States Government regarding the supply of missiles to Israel; and what Her Majesty's Government's policy is on the supply of arms to the Middle East in the future.
§ Mr. HeathHer Majesty's Government were informed of the United States' readiness to supply defensive ground-to-air weapons to Israel before the news became public. The United States Government have stressed that this 13W decision did not imply a change in the general policy about arms control and avoiding an arms race in the area.
Her Majesty's Government's policy on the supply of arms to the Middle East has been directed for many years to the maintenance of stability and peace in the area. While we are always ready to consider the legitimate defensive needs of the countries concerned we have no intention of stimulating an arms race. This policy remains unchanged.