Sri Lanka (Hansard, 17 April 2002)

§ Mr. Llwyd
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received in the past 12 months regarding arms exports to Sri Lanka from representatives of the Tamil people. [49338]

§ Dr. Moonie
None.

§ Mr. Llwyd
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent meetings he has had with representatives of the Tamil people to discuss human rights issues in Sri Lanka. [49341]

§ Dr. Moonie
The Secretary of State for Defence has had no meetings with representatives of the Tamil people.

§ Mr. Llwyd
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received in the last 12 months regarding(a) arms exports to Sri Lanka from Britain and (b) their subsequent effect on the Tamil people; and if he will make a statement. [49333]

§ Dr. Moonie
There have been a number of approaches by UK companies in the past 12 months seeking marketing advice for potential sales to this region. We have given advice on these on a case by case basis making it clear that the advice given does not prejudge the outcome of an export licence application. All such applications are considered against the consolidated EU and national arms export licensing criteria. We will not issue an export licence where there is a clear risk that the goods might be used for internal repression or international aggression or to undermine regional stability.
938W

§ Mr. Llwyd
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how many times he has met representatives of the Government of Sri Lanka to discuss arms exports in each of the past five years; [49336]
(2) when he will next meet representatives of the Sri Lankan Government to discuss arms exports; and if he will make a statement. [49342]

§ Dr. Moonie
There have been no such meetings in the past and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence has no current plans to meet with representatives of the Government of Sri Lanka. The Government welcome the progress being made to achieve peace in Sri Lanka. Should we be asked, we would of course give positive consideration to any initiatives that might assist this process.