§ Mr. Menzies CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is regarding private military companies operating from the United Kingdom and dependent territories which are involved in the supply of mercenaries and related military services. [125280]
§ Mr. HainWe condemn the recruitment, use, financing and training of mercenaries. We are committed to issuing a Green Paper on mercenary activity by November 2000. This will be a consultative document which will look at the options for further Government action in this area.
§ Mr. Menzies CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is regarding the International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries; and if he will make a statement. [125310]
§ Mr. HainHer Majesty's Government have no plans to sign the 1989 International Convention on Mercenaries. We do not consider that it would be enforceable in the704W UK courts. Although the Convention was adopted more than ten years ago, it has not yet attracted sufficient ratifications to enter into force.