§ Mr. BrazierTo ask the Secretary of state for Defence what arrangements he is making to examine the nature and extent of information currently provided on the export of defence equipment as recommended in Sir Richard Scott's report; and if he will make a statement. [23294]
638W
§ Mr. ArbuthnotMy Department is leading the review recommended by Sir Richard Scott. It will examine the nature and extent of information currently provided, and will take account of the industrial, employment and diplomatic implications of any change in the longstanding parliamentary convention governing the disclosure of information. We shall be seeking the views of a wide range of interested parties and will report back to the House before the summer recess.
Hon. Members and others wishing to comment on any issue that the review might cover should write to:
- Mrs. Mollie Field
- Export Information Review
- Room 0206
- Ministry of Defence
- Main Building
- Whitehall
- London SW1A 2HB.
Copies of the document already placed in the Library of the House which sets out the current position in relation to informing Parliament about the export of defence equipment can be provided on request.
The closing date for contributions to the review process will be 24 May 1996.