SINCE the adequate protection of rights to life and security of the person against repression and acts of aggression is fundamental to the well-being and to the social and economic development of every country;

AND SINCE it is the duty of every government to protect and safeguard the rights of its people:

AND SINCE every responsible country has the right to acquire arms to equip itself against acts of aggression;

AND SINCE the Republic is a responsible member of the international community and will not trade in conventional arms with states engaged in repression, aggression or terrorism;

AND SINCE the Republic is engaged in the manufacturing and export of conventional arms;

AND SINCE it is vitally important to ensure accountability in all matters concerning conventional arms.

BE IT THEREFORE ENACTED by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, as follows:-