HC Deb 26 January 1978 vol 942 c745W
Mr. Lee

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many cases of corruption in connection with obtaining contracts, involving alleged bribery by British companies of foreign Governments or of foreign companies abroad have come to his notice in the course of the last five years; in how many cases such allegations were connected with contracts for the sale or purchase of arms; in how many cases such allegations were brought to his notice by the diplomatic representatives of foreign Governments; in how many cases they were discovered as a result of the initiative of his diplomatic staff; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Judd

In the case of allegations of bribery by British companies overseas the Government concerned would undertake their own investigations; the enforcement of legislation and general standards relating to business activities is a matter for the appropriate authorities acting within their own jurisdiction.