International Arms Trade Treaty

During a short debate following a question on the International Arms Trade Treaty, Shailesh Vara asks the Foreign Secretary what discussions she has had with the Ministru of Defence and the Department of Trade and Industry about the treaty.

Mr. Shailesh Vara (North-West Cambridgeshire) (Con): I congratulate the right hon. Lady on her appointment. Will she kindly inform the House what discussions she has had about the arms treaty with the Ministry of Defence and the Department of Trade and Industry?

Margaret Beckett: Although I have had a substantial number of discussions since my appointment, I have not, as it happens, had discussions with the Ministry of Defence. However, it is my understanding that there is full support for that move and full recognition of the important contribution that it can make."