§ Mr. Warbeyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what information he has obtained, in conformity with his obligations under the Tripartite Declaration, regarding the supply of arms to Syria and Iraq, respectively, during the past twelve months, and by which countries the arms have been supplied in each case.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerThe Tripartite Declaration refers to applications for arms made to the three signatories, sets out the principles in the light of which they intend to consider such applications and expresses the opposition of the three Governments to the development of an arms race. As has frequently been made clear in the House, Her Majesty's Government are in close and constant touch with their co-signatories and other friendly Powers with regard to the question of arms supplies to the area. Her Majesty's Government are not accountable for supplies by other countries. As far as Her Majesty's Government are concerned, no arms are being supplied to Syria at present, while supplies to Iraq continue in accordance with the principles set out in the Tripartite Declaration. I am not prepared to supply details.
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§ Mr. Warbeyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what information he has obtained, in conformity with his obligations under the Tripartite Declaration, of Soviet arms deliveries to Syria during the past three months in excess of those previously arranged; and whether he will give details.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerThe Tripartite Declaration imposes no obligation on Her Majesty's Government with regard to information on Soviet arms deliveries to Syria. Contracts entered into between the Soviet Government and Syria and the Soviet Government's default or excess in any such contracts are hardly matters for which Her Majesty's Government can be held responsible. With regard to information about arms actually delivered by the Soviet Union, I have nothing to add to the Answer given to the hon. Member for Wembley, South (Mr. Russell) on 28th November.