Clarion has defended the robustness of its DSEi exhibitor vetting procedures after ejecting several exhibitors who showcased illegal products at last week’s show.

In two separate statements, the show organiser acknowledged its decision to remove several exhibitors due to breaches of compliance. In the first case, DSEi confirmed the Pakistan Ordnance Factory stand and Pakistan Defence Export Promotion Organisation Pavilion were permanently shut down after both were found with promotional material for equipment breaching UK Government Export Controls and exhibition contractual requirements.

Clarion said Her Majesty’s Government backed its decision to close the stand and pavilion.

“We are currently investigating how this breach of our compliance system occurred,” Clarion stated. “However, we believe the immediate action we have taken highlights our commitment to ensuring that all equipment, services, promotional material, documentation and anything else on display complies with domestic and international law.”

DSEi staff also had to close UK-based distributor Beechwood Equipment’s stand after the company was found to be promoting equipment from US company CTS-Thompson that breached UK Government export controls. In this case, the organiser informed the Export Control Organisation of the breach. CTS produces handcuffs, leg irons, chains and other restraints.

“If any companies are found to be exhibiting anything that contravenes this policy then robust and appropriate action will always be taken,” the DSEi statement read. 

Event director Duncan Reid total EN the organiser works with the UK Government to check everything on display at the show is compliant and vets exhibitors before the show, during build-up and throughout the event. The organiser is assisted by the UK Export Control Organisation.

This year’s DSEi at Excel London reported a 16 per cent increase in total attendance to 29,112. The 2011 exhibition was more content-led than previous editions and included several new features such as a robotic and unmanned systems demonstration, more warships, a seminar programme and additional lounge and meetings facilities.

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