International Red Cross: Overseas Companies
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions she has had with the International Committee of the Red Cross on supporting UK businesses abroad who might be considered legitimate targets in conflict zones.
Answered by Chris Elmore
UK Private Military Security Companies (PMSCs) are subject to extensive regulation and oversight through a mix of legal and voluntary mechanisms, including the requirement to ensure compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The UK also works closely with the Security in Complex Environments Group (SCEG), which represents the interests of its PMSC members, and works to raise standards across the sector.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has a strictly humanitarian mandate, in line with the Geneva Conventions, to provide humanitarian assistance, protect lives, and uphold IHL worldwide. It does not have any role supporting the business activities of PMSCs.
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