Source · Select Committees · Committees on Arms Export Controls
Recommendation 13
13
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 50
We are concerned about the lack of consultation on the new Strategic Export Licensing Criteria.
Conclusion
We are concerned about the lack of consultation on the new Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. While we note that previous changes to the criteria have not Developments in UK Strategic Export Controls 45 been subject to formal consultation, we believe that the unique circumstances of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU mean that a formal consultation would have been beneficial.
Government Response Summary
The government notes the committee's conclusions regarding the lack of consultation on new Strategic Export Licensing Criteria and explains the rationale for the amendments made, citing alignment with international obligations and strategic objectives.
Paragraph Reference:
50
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government notes the Committees’ conclusions. Discussions about potential changes to the Criteria, beyond those that were necessary as a result of the UK leaving the European Union (EU), only began in late 2021. As a result of these discussions, it was decided to amend the Criteria to more closely align them to the UK’s international legal obligations, including the Arms Trade Treaty, and to better reflect the Government’s strategic export objectives.