HC Deb 07 July 1966 vol 731 cc663-4
Q2. Mr. Blaker

asked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied with the arrangements for co-ordinating policy between the Ministers responsible for carrying out the policy of collectivising the nuclear deterrent; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Blaker

Since we have obligations to Commonwealth countries in Asia and Australasia, does not the Prime Minister agree that it would be unwise to commit all our Polaris submarines to the Atlantic Force?

The Prime Minister

The Polaris submarines, when they were ordered and the arrangements were made, were designated for use in Europe. The Atlantic Nuclear Force relates to them, but, as the hon. Member will be aware, I have said that there is a very serious problem about nuclear guarantees in Asia which also needs to be dealt with on a collective basis.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

The right hon. Gentleman says that they were designated for use in Europe, but, of course, the last Government always kept the right to withdraw these weapons should we wish to do so. Would it not be wise to keep some flexibility in the arrangements so that, if necessary, in future years we would be able to transfer them to the Far East?

The Prime Minister

I was not referring, to the right to withdraw from N.A.T.O. but to the fact that the whole plan in terms of production and depot ships was related to use in Europe and not to use in Asia.