In developing its approach to the Criteria, the Government benchmarked its export control policy and operations against those of the United States, Germany, France and Sweden. We found no evidence that these countries' licensing regimes were substantially more effective or efficient than our own. Nevertheless, we determined that we should amend the Criteria to more closely align with our international legal obligations and to better reflect the Government’s strategic export objectives. The Government is satisfied that the Criteria provide a thorough risk assessment framework for assessing export licence applications and does not consider an independent review to be necessary or proportionate. We will ensure that the Criteria continue to properly reflect the Government’s strategic objectives and international obligations.