§ 18. Mr. ChaytorTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent advice he has given to British nationals resident in Saudi Arabia. [178643]
§ Mr. RammellThe Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises British nationals resident in Saudi Arabia that if they choose to remain in Saudi Arabia they should take all necessary steps to protect their safety and should make sure they have confidence in their individual security arrangements. They should maintain a high level of vigilance, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners. They should adopt a low profile and avoid public gatherings, which could lead to disorder. They should remember that Islamic law is strictly enforced in Saudi Arabia.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice makes clear that there is a continuing high threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. Following terrorist attacks in April and May 2004, we continue to believe that terrorists are planning further attacks against Westerners and places associated with Westerners.
The full test of our advice is available at: www. fco.gov.uk. We keep our travel advice under close review.
§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what account the Government takes of the changing(a) security and (b) political situation in Saudi Arabia when making decisions on arms export licences; and if he will make a statement. [178139]
§ Mr. RammellExport licence applications for Saudi Arabia, as for all countries, are assessed against the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Criteria, taking account of the circumstances at the time and other announced Government policies. In assessing export licence applications, the Government take account of all available and relevant information.