Unusual report: The UK sold 2.3 million punds worth of military equipment to Argentina

 

 

July 13, 2012

 

Britain has sold £2.3million of military equipment to Argentina in the last two years despite mounting tensions over the sovereignty of the Malvinas/Falklands.

Ministers approved the export of components for helicopters, warships, aircraft and radars as well as communications equipment and shotguns.

The consignments were sent to Buenos Aires as Argentine president Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner ratcheted up demands for Britain to hand over the islands.

Figures published in a report by MPs reveal at least £700,000 of arms were sold between October and December last year as the 30th anniversary of the conflict approached. The companies are not named in the report.

The cross-party Committees on Arms Export Controls expressed disquiet that shipments had been delivered to Argentina in light of its threat to the islands.

Since 1998, the UK has only agreed to export goods which would maintain Argentina’s military position, not enhance it.

Source: Daily Mail