The desperate argument
The existence of official arms export controls is often cited by the Government in defence of indefensible arms exports. But the UK’s arms exports speak for themselves, as do the tiny proportion of arms export licence applications that are refused.
There are several technical reasons that contribute to the ineffectiveness of the UK’s arms export controls, but the overwhelming reason is that it is Government policy and practice to actively promote and support arms sales. Within this policy context, the main effect of the licensing process is to legitimise arms exports.[1]
So why sell arms?
The less than satisfactory reality is that arms exports are not the result of a well thought through government policy.
They happen because this is what government has done for decades, because there is a militaristic approach to security, and because there is a government predisposition towards the interests of big business. This status quo is powerfully reinforced by arms companies via a web of personal contacts and formal advisory bodies.
Presently, the only meaningful constraint on arms exports is political embarrassment. Restrictions on arms sales are put in place when particularly shaming sales are uncovered or when a buyer (such as Libya), to the Government’s apparent shock, uses the weaponry it has bought.
Give us feedback on this page