asked the Minister for Defence the estimated total amount realised by the sale of surplus or obsolete arms by his Department in the past five years; the countries or individuals to which such equipment was sold; and the approximate amount paid by each such country or individual purchaser during the period.

My Department have not sold any surplus or obsolete arms in the past five years.

Were any arms sold prior to the last five years?

They have not been sold since 1970.

Since 1971.

It was changed in 1970.

Is the Minister aware of reports — I cannot give the source — which indicated that Ireland was a supplier of obsolete and out-of-date arms, particularly to Third World countries?

And to film studios.

Is there any truth in these rumours?

None.

What do they do with the arms?

The send them to Hollywood.