ARMS EMBARGO ON CHINA (No. 2)

Early day motion 1004, tabled 24 March 2005 by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative). Signed by 19 members.

That this House remains concerned at the EU's plans to lift its arms embargo on China; notes that the EU Code of Conduct is not legally binding on member states; requests that before the Government considers such a move it adheres to its own criteria, namely that any lifting of the embargo should not contribute to a significant enhancement in the effectiveness of Chinese military capabilities, and must not lead to a rise in the level of tension in the Taiwan Straits; reminds the Government of its claim to attach a very high importance to seeking and improving the human rights situation in China; calls on the Government to conduct a detailed review of the possible implications for the UK defence industry; and further calls on the Government to veto any such move to lift the embargo until the review has reported.

Signatures by party: Conservative 16, Labour/Co-operative 1, Liberal Democrat 1, UUP 1.