§ 41. Dr. M. S. Millerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if Her Majesty's Government will impose an embargo on arms sales to Iraq and Iran in the light of the recent escalation of hostilities between the two States.
§ Mr. HurdWe are neutral in the war and we have not supplied arms or ammunition to either side. Sales of defence equipment are subject to customary licensing procedures. Applications are considered in the light of all relevant circumstances including our relations with the countries involved and, in the case of Iran and Iraq, our neutrality during the present state of hostilities. Her Majesty's Government's overriding interest is to encourage an early and negotiated settlement.