§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what communications he has had with his United States counterparts since 5 February in respect of the United Kingdom opposition to(a) incapacitants and (b) irritant chemical agents in warfare. [102074]
§ Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has made to the United States administration about the British Government's policy on the use by British armed forces of incapacitant and calmative weapons, and irritant chemical agents during wartime. [102414]
§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the compatibility of disabling nerve agents with international obligations governing chemical weapons. [101941]
§ Mr. Hoon[holding answer 10 March 2003]The Chemical Weapons Convention prohibits the development, production and use of all toxic chemicals (both lethal and incapacitating) and their precursors, except where they are intended for purposes not prohibited under the Convention, as long as the type and quantities are consistent with such purposes.