FUTURE OPTIONS FOR PRIVATE MILITARY COMPANIES

Early day motion 850, tabled 12 February 2002 by Llew Smith (Labour). Signed by 51 members.

That this House notes the publication of the Green Paper on private military companies (HCP 577) on 12th February; believes that to establish the precedent of legitimate military mercenaries would be the thin edge of a dangerous wedge; recognises that the main motivation of military mercenaries is money and that traditionally they have been prepared to work for the highest bidder, no matter how onerous the regime and regardless of the cause; believes that the pitfalls highlighted in the Green Paper, including important concerns for human rights, sovereignty and accountability are far more important than possible lower costs of employing military mercenaries; and calls upon the Foreign Secretary to respect these principles and reject the notion and possible role of private military companies as outlined in the Green Paper.

Signatures by party: Labour 41, Labour/Co-operative 3, Liberal Democrat 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1.