Private Military Companies

HC Deb 15 February 1999 vol 325 cc580-1W

Ann Clwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions his officials have had with representatives of private military companies since the guidelines following the Legg report were introduced; and if he will list the companies concerned. [69353]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

Private military companies include companies engaged in a wide range of activities.

On 24 July 1998, interim guidance was issued to all FCO officials on contacts with private military companies. This was intended to direct FCO officials on their contacts with such companies, and to guard against subsequent misinterpretation. We are in the process of preparing more detailed guidance in consultation with other Whitehall departments. We intend to make this available to Parliament and to companies or individuals who request it.

Since the introduction of the interim guidance, officials have reported contacts with a range of companies on a range of issues. Most of these contacts have been initiated by the companies themselves and have been of a routine nature. It is not our intention to publish names or details.