HC Deb 25 May 1995 vol 260 cc676-7W
Mrs. Clwyd

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will further regulate the sale of equipment which can be used, and has been designated, for use against persons in repressive conditions. [25693]

Mr. Ian Taylor

[holding answer 22 May 1995]: It is not feasible to control the export of the many innocuous goods that can be misused for torture. Exports of weapons, security and para-military police goods are controlled under the terms of the Export of Goods (Control) Order. Licences are granted only after careful consideration of the political and military implications of the proposed sale, with particular attention paid to the human rights record of the proposed recipient country. The Department would not knowingly give any support to promote sales overseas of torture equipment. I see no need for further regulation.

The regulation of firearms sales within Great Britain is a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department.