HC Deb 09 November 1998 vol 319 c34W
Ann Clwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will sign the United Nations International Convention Against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries. [58423]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

We have no plans at present to sign the 1989 UN Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries because of widespread doubt that it is legally enforceable. The Convention has not attracted sufficient support to enter into force.

Ann Clwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on Government policy relating to the use of mercenaries in armed conflicts. [58431]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

We and our EU partners have always made it clear that we unequivocally condemn the recruitment, use and financing of mercenaries in armed conflict. We are concerned about the spread of mercenary activity.