§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the Government's current policy on the sale of military equipment to Sri Lanka; when the latest embargo was lifted; and what considerations underlay this action. [2070]
§ Mr. HanleyWe maintain strict controls on all exports of military equipment to Sri Lanka. We examine each case on its merits, paying particular attention to the Sri Lankan Government's human rights record. A total embargo on arms sales to Sri Lanka was lifted in October 1992, following evidence that the Sri Lankan Government had improved their human rights record.
§ Mr. GerrardTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make it his policy to ban the sale of arms to Sri Lanka. [2051]
§ Mr. HanleyWe maintain strict controls on all exports of military equipment to Sri Lanka. We examine each case on its merits, paying particular attention to the Sri Lankan Government's human rights record, and bearing in mind their right to defend themselves against military attack.