David Norris (Independent)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I ask that the report of this Adjournment matter be transmitted to the Minister for Defence so that he may consider it himself, as I do not hold the Minister for Finance to be responsible. He has made a strong, indirect argument for an embargo. The EuroMed agreement, which has been referred to, has human rights protocols attached to it. There is strong prima facie evidence of massive war crimes and human rights violations there. It is appalling that this EuroMed agreement has not even been examined with a view to being monitored. It is sad that fair competition overrules considerations of human rights and justice for oppressed people. The irony of the language is made clear when we are told that these materials are used for "target acquisition for overseas peace support operations". What exactly is being targeted in the name of peace? One thing I can see being targeted here are the rights of a desperate, oppressed and strangled Palestinian people. I thank the Minister of his courtesy and forbearance.