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Defence Export Controls Agreement

09 December 2025

Proposing MP
Luke Pollard Lab Co-op
Plymouth Sutton and Devonport
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Defence
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The UK has acceded to the Agreement on Defence Export Controls alongside France, Germany, and Spain.

Action Requested

UK accession to the agreement will reduce administrative burdens for granting export licences between nations, open opportunities for UK businesses in defence exports, and support the growth of the UK's defence industry while maintaining robust export controls. This aligns with the Strategic Defence Review's goal of making the UK Europe’s leading defence exporter.

Key Facts

  • The Agreement on Defence Export Controls involves the UK, France, Germany, and Spain.
  • It aims to reduce administrative burdens for granting export licences between these nations.
  • It supports UK businesses involved in multinational defence programs and supply chains.
  • The agreement does not affect the UK’s existing export control regime or international law obligations.
  • The UK's licensing authority will continue assessing each licence application against the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria.
  • The Strategic Defence Review (SDR) aims to make the UK Europe’s leading defence exporter.
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