- You are here:
- Home
- › Global issues
- › Weapons proliferation
Weapons proliferation
The spread of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) poses a threat to the UK and the international community. Increasingly, terrorists and criminal networks are trying to acquire these weapons.
We're working around the world to promote and implement our policies on nuclear weapons, chemical and biological weapons, conventional weapons, export controls and ambition for an arms trade treaty.
Nuclear weapons
The UK is focusing on leading international efforts on nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
The UK helped secure the Convention on Cluster Munitions that was signed by over ninety countries on 3 December 2008.
Arms Trade Treaty
UN members have voted in favour of forming an Arms Trade Treaty. Negotiations on its terms begin in 2010.
Chemical and biological weapons
We're working to enforce the ban on chemical and biological weapons through international treaties and conventions
Controlling the export of weapons
We're working to improve the international standard of export controls for weapons
Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)
The UK supports a global Arms Trade Treaty ATT to curb the irresponsible trade and transfer of arms
Conventional weapons
We're working closely with other countries and international organisations such as the UN to develop an arms trade treaty