§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, during the meetings of the working group on nuclear nonproliferation of the European political co-operation committee held during 1990, the matter of the export of nuclear capable technology and technology and equipment usable in launching nuclear weapons to Iraq has been raised; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveWe raised our concern about the incident on 28 March, when a consignment of capacitors bound for Iraq was intercepted at Heathrow, at the meeting of the working group on 3 and 4 April. In subsequent discussion, partners agreed that all possible steps should be taken to ensure that barriers against proliferation are strengthened, and that export controls are adequate. The working group has also discussed the expansion of the missle technology control regime.
§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's knowledge of commercial interest in the Lear Fan factory in Northern Ireland expressed by Iraq or Iraq-backed companies.
§ Mr. Waldegrave[holding answer 2 May 1990]: In the light of the charges laid against individuals, and of the continuing investigations by Customs and Excise, it would be wrong for me to comment on these matters.