Source · Select Committees · Committees on Arms Export Controls
Recommendation 31
31
Accepted
Paragraph: 102
We note the high-level of concern that exists regarding exports to Saudi Arabia and her...
Conclusion
We note the high-level of concern that exists regarding exports to Saudi Arabia and her coalition partners of items that may be used in the conflict in Yemen. This conflict is tragic and we call on all sides to give renewed urgency to finding a solution. It is of the utmost concern that exports were made in breach of the Government’s undertakings to the Court of Appeal. Lessons must be learned around the mechanisms for sharing information and intelligence between departments that make up the ECJU. We support the work of the Mills Review. However, we share concerns expressed by witnesses that this could happen again in respect of exports to other nations.
Government Response Summary
The government has learned lessons from the Court of Appeal judgment and has taken steps to improve the mechanisms for sharing information and intelligence between departments that make up the ECJU; it assesses all export licences for Saudi Arabia and her coalition partners on a case-by-case basis against the Consolidated Criteria.
Paragraph Reference:
102
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government recognises the Committees’ concerns regarding exports to Saudi Arabia and her coalition partners of items that may be used in the conflict in Yemen. The UK is committed to supporting a lasting resolution to the conflict. We continue to urge all parties to agree a ceasefire and to engage meaningfully with UN-led peace efforts. We assess all export licences for Saudi Arabia and her coalition partners on a case-by-case basis against the Consolidated Criteria, taking into account prevailing circumstances at the time of application. In July 2020, the then Secretary of State for International Trade made a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament setting out the actions taken following the Court of Appeal judgment. The Government has learned lessons from this experience and has taken steps to improve the mechanisms for sharing information and intelligence between departments that make up the ECJU.