This snapshot, taken on
04/03/2010
, shows web content acquired for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search may not work in archived websites and contact details are likely to be out of date.
 
 
The UK Government Web Archive does not use cookies but some may be left in your browser from archived websites.

We're creating a single website for everything to do with BIS but, while we do that, you'll find information in three places. > Find what you're looking for

 
 

Controls on Torture Goods

The main legal basis for controls on "torture" goods is the EU Regulation on Products used for Capital Punishment and Torture. (also known as Council Regulation (EC) No. 1236/2005).

This regulation is part of European Union law. It is directly applicable in all EU countries including the UK.

View information on:

Legislation

The regulation concerns trade in equipment and products which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. 

"Torture" Regulation: Council (EC) Regulation No 1236/2005 

The regulation came into force on 30 July 2006.

 

Associated Secondary Legislation

The following UK secondary legislation or orders came into force on 30 July 2006 to coincide with the introduction of the EC Regulation 1236/2005.

See also:

Subsequently, on the 23 August 2006, an amendment was made in the form of:

  • The Export Control (Amendment) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2271)

You can view a summary of the legislation in force under Current UK Strategic Export Control Legislation.

 

Updates

There are no current relevant Notices to Exporters providing details of legislative and other changes.

To keep up to date with legislation changes, you can view the ECO's Notices to Exporters. You can keep informed of export control issues by receiving Notices by email. To do so, simply: Join the ECO Mailing List.

 

Details and Guidance on implementation

See more on the Details of the Regulation

For reference, the changes made to UK legislation as a result of the regulation are outlined in implementation of EC Torture Regulation.

More information is also available in the Torture Regulation - FAQs

The UK Strategic Export Control Lists: The Consolidated UK Military and UK and EC Dual-Use Lists, includes a listing of controlled torture goods (EC Human Rights List). If your products are listed (ie have a 'rating entry') in the Control Lists then you will need to apply for a licence.

 

What licences are available

As with other categories of controlled goods, exporters need to apply for a licence. The type of licence required depends on the destination and the nature of the export.

Exporters can apply for either a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL), an Open Individual Export Licence (OIEL) or register for an Open General Export Licence (OGL). See more about Licences.

All licence applications are made via SPIRE.

Further information on licensing

If you need further help in deciding if your goods need an export licence, you can either

 

Legal Advice

You are advised to obtain your own legal advice where necessary and to ensure that you referring to the latest version of the legislation.

 

Export Control Organisation

Updated: July 2008

Back to top

 

© Crown copyright2010