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<p>The British Government takes its arms export licensing responsibilities very seriously
and operates one of the most robust arms export control regimes in the world. All
export licence applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis against the Consolidated
EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria, taking account of all relevant factors
at the time of the application. The key test for our continued arms exports to Saudi
Arabia in relation to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is whether there is a clear
risk that those items subject to the licence might be used in a serious violation
of IHL. The situation is kept under careful and continual review.</p><p>We are aware
that, following the 4 November ballistic missile attack on Riyadh, the Saudi-led Coalition
announced a temporary closure of Yemen's land, sea and air ports while they review
procedures designed to disrupt weapons smuggling prohibited under UNSCR 2216. We recognise
Saudi Arabia's legitimate need to protect its national security, but at the same time
it is vital that Yemen remains open to humanitarian and commercial access. We welcome
the Coalition's announcement that ports and airports in territory controlled by the
Government of Yemen have reopened. But clearly there is much further to go to ensure
humanitarian and commercial supplies reach all those who need them. As the Foreign
and Commonwealth Office statement on 15 November made clear, it is essential that
UN flights are resumed and Hodeidah port reopened. The Government is engaged with
the Saudi authorities at the highest levels in support of this.</p>
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