HC Deb 11 February 2002 vol 380 c7W
Vera Baird

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consideration his Department has given in the last two months to the impact of UK sales of Hawk aircraft to India on the stability of the region in advance of an export licence application. [34081]

Dr. Moonie

All export licence applications are considered on a case by case basis against the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria, taking into account all the relevant circumstances prevailing at the time the application is received.

Vera Baird

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what he has done in the last two months to encourage the sales of Hawk aircraft to India. [34080]

Mr. Hoon

The Government continue to support BAE System's proposal to sell Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer aircraft to India. During the Indian Defence Minister's short stopover in Britain in January, I discussed a range of defence matters, including defence export opportunities.

Vera Baird

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when delivery will be taken of the first aircraft if Hawk aircraft are sold to India. [34082]

Dr. Moonie

This is a matter for BAE Systems and the Government of India and it would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment.