§ 11. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Defence what are the prospects of reducing expenditure both in the nuclear and non-nuclear fields.
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe Government's proposals for defence expenditure will be laid before Parliament in the normal way. No useful purpose would be served by anticipating the statement.
§ Mr. AllaunIs it not true that certain influential voices are urging a cut in expenditure on nuclear arms, only to increase it on non-nuclear weapons? Would the right hon. Gentleman cut both and permit the saving to go to housing and pensions instead?
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe hon. Gentleman is perfectly well aware of what the Government's policy is. Incidentally, it has been stated quite clearly in the Defence White Papers. It is to secure complete disarmament as soon as we can under proper safeguards.
§ Mr. PagetIs the deplorable state of the present equipment of our troops the first instalment in the Government's defence policy?
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe hon. and learned Gentleman had better put down a specific question if he wishes for an answer.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIs not the Minister making it one of his cardinal duties to reduce the crippling burden of armaments consistent with the safety of the Realm?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI quite accept that as the duty of the Minister of Defence.