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Space

Asked by Dr Neil Shastri-HurstConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 1 April 2025UIN 40847

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what diplomatic steps he has taken to help develop international (a) norms, (b) rules and (c) principles on responsible behaviours in space since 5 July 2024.

Answered by Stephen Doughty

The UK has been advocating and building international support for norms, rules and principles of responsible space behaviours at the United Nations to tackle threats to space systems, reduce the risk of conflict and preserve strategic stability. Since 5 July 2024, the UK has:

Secured support for the UK-led resolution on responsible space behaviours at the UN General Assembly.

Ensured the mandate of the UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in all its Aspects (PAROS) included norms, rules and principles of responsible space behaviours.

Used the International Security Fund to support diplomatic engagement with a broad range of countries on how responsible space behaviours can address space threats.

Shaped discussion on responsible space behaviours in the Conference on Disarmament.

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