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Global issues

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.

Missiles are displayed at the war museum, AFP/Getty Images

Nuclear weapons

Ahead of the NPT Review Conference, the UK is leading international efforts on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, and promoting peaceful nuclear energy.

An anti-tank cluster bomb waits to be loaded aboard the USS Kearsarge in the Adriatic Sea, March 1999. MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images

Cluster Munitions

The Convention on Cluster Munitions enters into force on 1 August 2010. The UK will implement the Convention.

Working towards an ATT, FCO Images

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


Singapore Armed Forces CBRE defense group soldiers during the Pacific Shield 2007, AFP/Getty Images

We're working to enforce the ban on chemical and biological weapons through international treaties and conventions

Nuclear weapons

Missile launch

The UK is working to lead international efforts on nuclear disarmament

Controlling the export of weapons

Trainee holsters his pistol for a live-fire anti-piracy exercise in Israel, Getty Images

We're working to improve the international standard of export controls for weapons

Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)

Pledges on a board during an Arms Trade Treaty event at the FCO, 15 June 2009.

The UK supports a global Arms Trade Treaty ATT to curb the irresponsible trade and transfer of arms

Conventional weapons

Unexploded bombs in Lebanon, AFP/Getty Images

We're working closely with other countries and international organisations such as the UN to develop an arms trade treaty

Cluster munitions

An anti-tank cluster bomb waits to be loaded aboard the USS Kearsarge in the Adriatic Sea, March 1999. MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images

Unexploded ordnance from cluster munitions threaten the lives of civilians

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