HC Deb 25 May 2004 vol 421 cc1553-4W
Harry Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether investigations by the police authorities have been undertaken in respect of individuals and companies for the offence of assisting or inducing weapons-related acts overseas, in particular for developing, producing or participating in the development or production of a nuclear weapon; and if he will make a statement. [174627]

John Healey

I have been asked to reply.

Investigation and prosecution of offences involving assisting or inducing weapons-related acts overseas is the responsibility of HM Customs and Excise. However, Customs' cannot comment on whether a matter is under current investigation; Exemption 4 (Law enforcement and legal proceedings) of the Open Government Code applies.

Customs have an important role in countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. They work closely with other Government Departments and agencies, in the UK and overseas, to ensure that effective action is taken against proliferators.

Any prosecution for such offences require the consent of the Attorney-General.