A controversial issue during the final years of the last Conservative administration, the inclusion in this year's Queen's speech of the export control and non-proliferation bill implements changes to legislation on export control not seen since 1939.

The bill responds to the recommendations in Sir Richard Scott's 1996 report about defence-related exports to Iraq that require changes in the law, and modernise existing legislation.

It also aims to build on measures implemented in Labour's first term, such as the new criteria to ensure export licences are not issued where this could lead to human rights abuses, a ban on export landmines, and a ban on the export of torture equipment. Accountability and transparency will also play a key role in the legislation.

House of Commons

First reading: June 26 2001 ((HC Bill 5))

Second reading: July 9 2001

Committee (Standing Committee B)

• 1st sitting: July 17 2001 (am)
• 2nd sitting: July 17 2001 (pm)
• 3rd sitting: July 19 2001 (am)
• 4th sitting: October 16 2001 (am)
• 5th sitting: October 16 2001 (pm)
• 6th sitting: October 18 2001 (am)

Remaining stages: November 8 2001

House of Lords

First reading: November 12 2001 (HL Bill 75)

Second reading: January 8 2002

Committee

• February 4 2002
• March 4 2002
• The bill as amended in committee: HL Bill 60

Report: April 18 2002HL Bill 75

Third reading: May 20 2002

House of Commons

Consideration of Lords amendments: June 24 2002

House of Lords

Consideration of Commons reasons: July 23 2002

House of Commons

Consideration of Lords amendments: July 24 2002

Royal Assent: July 24 2002