Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the role of British exports of military equipment in spreading sophisicated weapons and military technology to the middle east.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkThe United Kingdom has won orders for a range of military equipment to some middle east countries, but these have been allowed only after very careful consideration of each export to ensure that it is consistent with our national interests and international obligations. The factors considered always include assessments of political, strategic and technology transfer aspects.