Stephen criticises Ministers for lack of contact about arms exports
Stephen has cast doubt on the government’s desire to ban arms exports to Israel after he received an answer to a Parliamentary Question asking when the Business Secretary, who is responsible for International Trade, last held discussions with the Foreign Secretary.
The answer, from the Minister of State for Industry and Economic Security, failed to give a date or hint at how frequently both Secretaries of State had met. It merely stated that the government “continue[s] to monitor the situation…and [export licences]…are kept under careful and continual review.”
Speaking about the situation, Stephen said: “This answer shows a complete lack of urgency in wanting to deal with this issue. Ministers should be meeting regularly to talk about this hugely important matter, particularly given recent developments in Rafah.”
You can view the question and answer here.