Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Arms (Exports and Remote Warfare)

16 December 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Alyn Smith SNP Na h-Eileanan an Iar

DefenceBusiness & TradeParliamentary Procedure

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Alyn Smith raised concerns about arms (exports and remote warfare) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moves a Bill to establish oversight mechanisms for arms exports, drones, and lethal autonomous weapons
  • The UK was the world's second-biggest exporter of arms worth 11 billion in 2019
  • Proposes a new Select Committee with authority to approve licences on ministerial recommendation

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Alyn Smith SNP Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Moves a Bill to establish oversight mechanisms for arms exports, drones, and lethal autonomous weapons. The UK is the world’s second-biggest exporter of arms worth £11 billion in 2019. Current scrutiny arrangements lack transparency and effective democratic oversight. Proposes a new Select Committee with authority to approve licences on ministerial recommendation. Emphasises the need for updated rules on drones, post-strike assessments, and international law adherence. Calls for preemptive ban on lethal autonomous weapons citing moral and technological grounds.

Other contributors (1)
  • Alyn Smith SNP Na h-Eileanan an Iar

    Proposes a Bill to ensure parliamentary scrutiny over arms exports, drones, and autonomous weapon systems. Acknowledges the importance of defence industry but argues for transparency in global effects. Highlights current oversight inadequacies and suggests forming a new Select Committee with status within the House. Urges for clearer UK policy on drone use, alignment with international law, and learning from post-strike assessments. Advocates for preemptive ban on lethal autonomous weapons citing moral and technological risks.

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