HC Deb 16 May 1957 vol 570 cc569-70
46. Mr. Stokes

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the declared intention of the British aircraft constructors is to export guided missiles of both winged and ballistic construction as a substitute export for military aircraft; and whether he is prepared to give the necessary Government permission.

The Prime Minister

I am aware that manufacturers of guided missiles wish to develop an export trade. Proposals are examined on their merits in the light of security and other considerations.

Mr. Stokes

Will the Prime Minister give an assurance that none of these weapons which are capable of carrying a nuclear warhead will be allowed to be exported? Is he aware that many of us think it wise that even those which cannot carry nuclear warheads but only explosive warheads should also be under very strict export control?

The Prime Minister

Those are all the relevant considerations to which I have referred.