Explanatory note

This Order amends the Export Control Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/3231) (the “ECO”) to make provision for the enforcement of trade restrictions in relation to certain goods which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment as specified in Regulation (EU) 2016/2134 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 338, 13.12.2016, p. 1) (the “Amending Regulation”). The Amending Regulation amends Council Regulation (EC) No 1236/2005 (OJ L 200, 30.7.2005, p. 1) (the “torture Regulation”). This Order also makes certain minor and consequential amendments to implement the Amending Regulation.

Article 2(2) of this Order amends the ECO to allow for the issuance of Union General Export Authorisations under the torture Regulation pursuant to Article 1(11) of the Amending Regulation.

Article 2(3) of this Order amends the ECO as a consequential amendment to reflect the amendments to the torture Regulation made by Article 1(11) of the Amending Regulation.

Article 2(4) of this Order inserts into the ECO a number of offences in relation to the prohibitions and authorisation requirements introduced by the Amending Regulation into the torture Regulation.

An Impact Assessment has not been prepared in respect of this Order as minimal or no impact on the private or voluntary sectors is foreseen. An Explanatory Memorandum is available alongside the instrument on the www.legislation.gov.uk website. Copies have also been placed in the Libraries of both Houses of Parliament.