The banning of cluster bombs is one of the achievements of the last Labour Government of which I’m most proud. It didn’t happen by accident.
As International Development Secretary at the time I had seen the horrific consequences of the use of these weapons in some of the world’s poorest countries and worked hard here and internationally to get them banned. It wasn’t easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is.
Today, as negotiations are underway in New York around agreeing a global Arms Trade Treaty, we need the UK Government to show the same strong leadership. After delays and disagreements we need to send them a signal to make sure talks get back on track.
Britain has some of the tightest controls in the world on arms sales. But there can be no substitute for a global agreement to prevent the spread of unregulated arms. That is why progress towards an international treaty on the arms trade has always been a key Labour priority.
In Government, we led the way in calling for a treaty and were the first G8 nation to take up the issue. Leading the campaign for a legally binding global arms trade treaty was a key 2010 Labour manifesto commitment.
With just a week remaining, in these final days and hours it is vital that the UK Government works hard for a strong Treaty and shows the leadership needed at this critical time.
Adel and Wharfedale Branch 