§ Mr. GardinerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans she has to support arms fairs in the future. [136300]
§ Jacqui SmithMy Department represents the interests of UK-based defence manufacturers in their legitimate manufacturing and export interests. My Department also has no plans to change its long-standing arrangement whereby Ministers and Officials will attend20W exhibitions and fairs where armaments may be displayed and promoted. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), through the Defence Manufacturers Association, supports the presence of UK companies at overseas exhibitions, seminars and in outward missions.
Details of grants provided by UKTI to DMA were given to the hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent (Llew Smith), on 20 October 2003, Official Report, column 439W.