HC Deb 01 November 1993 vol 231 c67W
Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what considerations he will take into account when deciding to whom to sell the six River class minesweepers presently for sale.

Mr. Aitken

Our general policy is to support the sale of British defence equipment overseas wherever this is compatible with our political, strategic and security interests, We consider our own national security, our policy towards a particular country, and our international obligations. Subject to these constraints, we will negotiate with interested Governments in order to achieve the best price for the vessels.