§ Q1. Mr. Martenasked the Prime Minister if the agreement announced by one of his predecessors on 1st November, 1960, providing facilities for United States Polaris submarines will extend to cover the new missile Poseidon.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)The arrangement made with the United States Government covers the provision of facilities for missile-carrying submarines, and is not restricted to any particular mark of missile.
§ Mr. MartenI welcome this very firm statement that the increased weight of the American nuclear deterrent will receive the hospitality of the British shores, but can the Prime Minister say when this new weapon is likely to arrive? If he can give that date, will he consider forming a reception committee to give it a 541 welcome, comprising the 15 per cent. of his Government who were against the formation of the Holy Loch base?
§ The Prime MinisterI have had no information yet from the United States Government as to when this is likely to arrive. The House will recognise that the rapid development of missile technology quickly makes a whole lot of arguments from the other side out of date.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIn view of the fact that the arguments from the other side about the Polaris submarines are already obsolete, will my right hon. Friend consider stopping the construction of the new British naval base in Gare Loch, which is likely to cost £25 million, and make proposals to transfer that expenditure to housing, education and hospitals, where it is much more badly needed?
§ The Prime MinisterI explained to the House in considerable detail our policy in relation not only to that base but to the whole nuclear question, in the debate on 16th and 17th December.