PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Burma: Rohingya (16 October 2017)

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The EU already has in place sanctions on the Burmese military in the form of an arms embargo. This prevents the export of arms and equipment that could be used for internal repression. The UK has been a strong supporter within the EU of the continuing renewal of the arms embargo.

The Foreign Secretary represented the UK at the 16 October meeting of the EU's Foreign Affairs Council. At this meeting, the EU announced the suspension of visits by the Commander-in-Chief of Burma's armed forces and other senior Burmese military officers, and a review of all practical defence cooperation. This followed the UK's lead in suspending co-operation with the Burmese military announced by the Prime Minister in September. The Council also retained the option of considering additional measures against the Burmese military if the situation in Rakhine did not improve.

The UK will continue to work actively with partners to ensure the EU continues to contribute to international pressure on Burma's military.