Written question asked by Jim Cousins (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 June 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 June 1998. It was answered by Tony Lloyd (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 June 1998 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, What assessment he has made of the advantages of revising the Missile Technology Control Regime. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Cousins: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the advantages of revising the missile technology control regime. [44541] Mr. Tony Lloyd: The Missile Technology Control Regime is a potent non-proliferation instrument. Its Guidelines are sound. Members keep under constant review the detailed provisions of the regime, notably the lists of sensitive equipment, as they relate to technological developments, including the emergence of more sophisticated cruise missile technology and its suitability for chemical and biological weapon delivery. Regime members regularly meet to exchange information and discuss ways of tackling missile proliferation in regions and countries of concern. The Regime has evolved considerably and will evolve further in future to address missile proliferation issues.

Secondary information