20 Jul 16 The Committees on Arms Export Controls have today launched an inquiry into UK defence export promotion. The inquiry will examine the role the government plays in promoting the UK defence industry abroad and consider the impact this has on fulfilling the nation’s international obligations. It will also examine the effectiveness of the Defence Growth Partnership. The partnership between the government and the defence industry aims to increase the UK’s global market share of defence exports and build greater collaboration across the sector.
On launching the inquiry, Committee chair Chris White commented:
“With defence exports playing such an important role to our economy, it is right that government and business work together to ensure that the industry remains competitive and successful. However, it must also be recognised that the UK has a responsibility to ensure that this successful trade does not contradict its wider international obligations.
“We have launched this inquiry to understand how the government promotes the country’s defence industry abroad and what role it plays in ensuring that it successfully leads in innovation. We will also be looking to understand how the government promotes responsibility within the industry so that sales do not infringe on legal or political responsibilities.”
Written submissions are invited on the following questions:
• How important are UK defence exports to the economy?
• What role should HM Government play in promoting UK defence exports?
• How effective is the Defence Growth Partnership in supporting UK defence exports?
• Is the UK fulfilling its international obligations with regard to defence exports?
• What more could the UK do to promote responsible defence exports?
The deadline for written submissions is 31 August 2015.