HC Deb 16 December 1959 vol 615 cc1442-3
45. Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Prime Minister whether he will inform President Eisenhower, in virtue of the agreement conferring joint control by the heads of the two Governments over the use of United States nuclear weapons in this country, that he will withhold consent to United States nuclear bombers being kept on patrol over British territory, as recently decided by the Strategic Air Command.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. R. A. Butler)

I have been asked to reply.

We have received no proposals for any change in the long-standing arrangements regarding flights by United States aircraft based in this country. The question does not therefore arise.

Mr. Zilliacus

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Strategic Aircraft Command is preparing to make a request of this sort? Will he give a categorical assurance that under no circumstances will the Government authorise United States nuclear bombers to patrol over this country?

Mr. Butler

I am unwilling to give any such assurance, because I have not the information which is in the possession of the hon. Gentleman, and I think it would be wrong to make any statement before we receive a request.