The UK’s Mail Online article reports: Baroness Warsi last night attacked the Government’s decision to say arms exports to Israel will be suspended only if violence returns to Gaza.
Vince Cable announced a review found that 12 military export licences were for components for military radar systems, combat aircraft and tanks, which could be used by the Israeli Defence Force against Palestinians.
The Business Secretary said these licences would be suspended if the ceasefire collapsed.
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But Lady Warsi, who resigned as a Foreign Office minister last week, saying the Government’s stance on Gaza was morally indefensible, tweeted: ‘Arms export licences will only be suspended if hostilities resume!! So more people have to die before our criteria is met.’
The review found that the vast majority of exports licensed for Israel are not for items that could be used by forces in Gaza.
Mr Cable said: ‘We welcome the ceasefire in Gaza and hope that it will lead to a peaceful resolution. However the UK Government has not been able to clarify if the export licence criteria are being met. In light of that uncertainty we have taken the decision to suspend these existing export licences in the event of a resumption of significant hostilities. No new licences have been issued for use by the Israeli Defence Force during the review period.’
Niamh Harris