HL Deb 26 January 1999 vol 596 cc139-40WA
Lord Lamont of Lerwick

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Chilean Ambassador informed the Ministry of Defence in advance of the visit of General Pinochet. [HL496]

The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Gilbert)

I am not aware of any contact between the Ministry of Defence and the Chilean Ambassador in advance of Senator Pinochet's current visit to the UK.

Lord Lamont of Lerwick

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Which weapons systems or armaments have been the subject of discussion between Britain and Chile since May 1997; and whether General Pinochet has been involved in these discussions. [HL497]

Lord Gilbert

Since 1997, British industry is likely to have discussed the possible supply of a wide range of equipment with the Chilean authorities. Major equipment prospects of which the Government are aware include surplus Royal Navy frigates, new build frigates, fighter and utility aircraft. Senator Pinochet has not been involved in discussions with members of Her Majesty's Government about defence exports during this period.