§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what estimate he has made of the number of anti-personnel land mines that his Department(a) currently holds and (b) will hold in 2000. [27022]
§ Mr. Arbuthnot[holding answer 26 April 1996]: It is our established policy for security reasons not to reveal information relating to stock levels of munitions held or planned. However, as stated by the Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Boothferry (Mr. Davis) on 23 April 1996, Official Report, column 84, we intend to reduce quantities by almost half as soon as practicable. This will be reflected in the quantity of anti-personnel mines held in 2000.
If either agreement has been reached for an international ban on all anti-personnel mines or suitable alternatives have been identified, we will commence destruction of our remaining anti-personnel mines accordingly. The total number of mines held in 2000 will therefore also depend on whether and when such developments occur.
§ Dr. ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what techniques his Department plans to us to dispose of anti-personnel land mines not classified as smart land mines. [27023]
§ Mr. Arbuthnot[holding answer 26 April 1996]: No decision has been made on the method of destruction of surplus anti-personnel land mines. A decision will be made after assessment of the most cost-effective method which is consistent with safety and environmental protection.
§ Dr. ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to purchase new smart anti-personnel land mines; and from which countries. [27024]
§ Mr. Arbuthnot[holding answer 26 April 1996]: As my hon. Friend the Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office stated in his announcement on 23 April 1996, Official Report, column 84, the United Kingdom will work actively towards a total worldwide ban on anti-personnel mines. If we need to replace our remaining anti-personnel mines before an international ban is agreed, we will procure only those with a self-destruct capability. No final decisions on the procurement of these mines, including a source, have been taken and any decision will take account of all relevant factors, including progress towards a total worldwide ban.