Overview

This bill mandates an independent inquiry into the end use of UK-exported arms to determine if they've been used in violation of international law. It also requires the immediate suspension of arms sales to any country where such use cannot be ruled out.

Description

The bill establishes a process for investigating the end use of UK arms exports. This involves:

• Independent Inquiry: An independent inquiry, chaired and staffed by individuals recommended by the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, will investigate the end use of UK arms, compliance with international law by recipient states, and the effectiveness of current export licensing processes. The inquiry will consult with communities affected by the potential misuse of arms.
• Interim and Final Reports: The inquiry must produce an interim report within 6 months and a final report, both to be published publicly. The government will then respond to the final report in Parliament.
• Suspension of Arms Sales: The Secretary of State must immediately suspend arms sales to any country if it cannot be demonstrated that exported arms will not be used to violate international law. This includes suspending existing licenses and applications.
• Transparency: The Secretary of State must publish assessments of the risk of arms being misused in violation of international law.
• Consequential Provisions: The Secretary of State can make further regulations to ensure the bill's effective implementation, with those regulations subject to parliamentary approval.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will be associated with commissioning and running the independent inquiry, including staff, resources, and potentially legal support.

Groups Affected

The following groups will be affected:

• Arms manufacturers and exporters: Potential delays or suspension of sales could impact their business.
• Foreign governments: Those whose arms purchases are suspended will face supply disruptions.
• Communities affected by conflict: The inquiry and its findings could have implications for their safety and well-being.
• UK Parliament: The Parliament will be involved in appointing the inquiry panel and scrutinizing both the inquiry’s findings and the government’s response.
• The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs: This department will have increased responsibilities in relation to arms export licensing and will have to manage the inquiry.

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