Overview

This bill proposes creating a public Register of Arms Brokers in the UK. It aims to increase transparency and accountability in the arms trade by requiring individuals involved in facilitating the manufacture, export, or import of military equipment or technology to register and be vetted as "fit and proper persons."

Description

The bill amends the Export Control Act 2002. It mandates the creation of a Register of Arms Brokers, maintained and published by the Secretary of State.

Key Provisions:

• Definition of Arms Broker: Includes anyone involved in financing, transportation, freight forwarding, or other actions facilitating the manufacture, export, or import of military equipment or technology.
• Registration Requirements: Registration will be required every three years. Only those deemed "fit and proper persons" will be registered. The Secretary of State will provide guidance on determining "fit and proper person" status.
• Offences: It will be an offence to engage in arms brokerage activities without registration, punishable by up to one year imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify the exact cost of establishing and maintaining the register. The financial impact will depend on the resources allocated by the government for staffing, IT infrastructure, and administration related to the register's operation.

Groups Affected

• Arms Brokers: Directly affected, requiring registration and compliance with new regulations. Those deemed unfit will be excluded.
• Government Agencies: Responsible for establishing, maintaining, and enforcing the register.
• Law Enforcement: Will use the register to investigate and prosecute illegal arms trade activities.
• Public: Will have access to the register, promoting transparency in the arms trade.

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