§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Defence if in the light of the consequences of supplying British arms to Argentina, he will cancel the annual British army equipment exhibition until restrictions can be agreed that will prevent the sale of arms to countries likely to use them for aggressive purposes.
§ Mr. PattieNo. All arms sales are strictly controlled and considered individually on their merits. The use to which the arms are likely to be put is one of many factors already taken into account.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he proposes to make any changes in the list of invitations to the British army equipment exhibition in the light of experience over the Falkland Islands; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieIt has been the practice of successive Governments not to publish details of those countries invited to such exhibitions, in deference to the wishes of many of our overseas visitors. I can, however, confirm that Argentina will not be represented at this year's British army equipment exhibition.