HC Deb 18 November 1986 vol 105 cc144-5W
Mr. Terlezki

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information he has on export of chemicals from European Economic Community countries to the middle east or the African states that can be used for military purposes; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Renton

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to chemicals which have legitimate civil uses but which are also capable of being used to manufacture lethal chemical agents. Following the confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Gulf conflict in 1984, the 12 members of the European Community have imposed export controls on certain chemicals which are so capable. In the United Kingdom, I understand that some 20 licences have been granted by the Department of Trade and industry for destinations in Africa or the middle east. We have been satisfied that these exports have been for legitimate purposes. I am not in a position to provide information on exports from other Community countries.

Mr. Terlezki

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he has any information on the use by any Warsaw pact countries of chemical weapons over the past six years; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Renton

The Soviet Union has been associated with reports of use of chemical weapons in Afghanistan and areas of south east Asia under Communist Governments. A summary of the evidence is in the United States Department of State special report No. 98 dated 2 March 1982, a copy of which has been deposited in the Library.

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