Argentina

HC Deb 26 April 1982 vol 22 cc198-9W

Mr. Austin Mitchell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will publish in the Official Report a table showing in chronological order the countries which have imposed sanctions of any kind on trade with Argentina, the nature of such sanctions and their duration.

Mr. Onslow

The following table shows the countries—apart from the United Kingdom—which have announced trade measures against Argentina, and what those measures were, in the order in which they were announcedCanada—Embargo on all military supplies Australia—Ban on imports; no new export credit commitments European Community countries—Announcement of decisions to ban imports and embargo military supplies Canada—Ban on imports; no new export credit commitments Hong Kong—Ban on imports New Zealand—Ban on imports and exports; arms and military material embargo; no new export credit commitments European Community countries—Entry into force of import ban Norway—Ban on imports

The European Community's ban on imports was introduced for a period of one month from 16 April. The announcements of all other measures did not state their duration.

Mr. Guy Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which European Economic Community countries have broken off diplomatic relations with Argentina.

Mr. Onslow

Only the United Kingdom has broken diplomatic relations with Argentina. The European Community has, however, given us prompt political and economic support for which we have expressed our gratitude.

Mr. Guy Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether European Economic Community countries have suspended export credits and removed trade preferences in respect of Argentina.

Mr. Onslow

On 14 April the European Community decided to place a complete embargo on all imports from Argentina. That decision came into force on 16 April. Not all member Governments have direct authority over their export credit institutions, but we do not expect that there will in present circumstances be any new offers of officially-supported export credits.

Mr. Guy Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which European Economic Community countries have so far not placed a ban on the export of arms, ammunition and military spare parts to Argentina.

Mr. Onslow

None.

Mr. Guy Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps have been taken by the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and Canada in respect of imports and exports, the supply of military equipment and in respect of diplomatic relations in relation to Argentina.

Mr. Onslow

The Governments of Australia, Canada and New Zealand have banned all imports from Argentina, stopped export credit and banned all sales of military equipment. New Zealand has also banned exports to Argentina, and landings by Argentine airlines. The Australian and Canadian Governments recalled their ambassadors for consultations. The New Zealand Government broke off diplomatic relations.