HL Deb 26 June 1995 vol 565 c40WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether any of the international organisations, such as the Zangger Committee and the Nuclear Suppliers Group, place any restrictions on the export of nuclear related equipment to Israel and whether these restrictions are applied by all (or any) governments participating in these organisations.

Earl Ferrers

The United Kingdom and other governments participating in the Zangger Committee and Nuclear Suppliers Group have agreed to abide by the guidelines of each of those organisations in relation to the export of the listed nuclear equipment and materials. In accordance with these obligations, export licences are required for any export from the United Kingdom of such equipment or materials irrespective of destination.

In so far as Her Majesty's Government's policy on the supply of such equipment and material is concerned, may I refer the noble Lord to the guidelines given in another place on 31 March 1976 by my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and the subsequent expansion of those guidelines as announced on 24 September 1991 requiring a policy of full scope safeguards as a condition of supply for nuclear goods and materials. Israel does not have a policy of full scope safeguards. Consequently, Her Majesty's Government will not licence the export of any significant nuclear supplies or materials to Israel.