HC Deb 17 June 1971 vol 819 cc618-20
9. Mr. Deakins

asked the Minister of State for Defence what form of working together with France he is intending to seek in the sphere of nuclear defence forces.

Lord Balniel

I have nothing to add to my answer to the hon. Member for Putney (Mr. Hugh Jenkins) on 11th March.—[Vol. 813, c. 564–5.]

Mr. Deakins

Is it the Government's view that any sharing of information about, or the production or control of, nuclear weapons, even within the context of a West European Community, would be a breach of both the spirit and letter of the Non-Proliferation Treaty?

Lord Balniel

That calls for a legal interpretation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty which I am reluctant to give off the cuff. I have explained that co-operation between the French and British Governments in nuclear matters depends on a closer understanding of defence objectives, and this does not exist now in this sphere.

Mr. Marten

In the light of that reply, does the speech on defence yesterday by my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster represent Government policy?

Lord Balniel

Yes, Sir. My right hon. and learned Friend was explaining that entry into the European Economic Community will inevitably strengthen European unity, and a stronger European unity will lead to a greater defence strength.

Mr. George Thomson

Is the Minister aware that Press reports of his right hon. and learned Friend's speech have caused about as much concern as some of his statements from the Dispatch Box now? Will he place a copy of the speech of the Chancellor of the Duchy in the Library so that we may have an opportunity to study it?

Lord Balniel

I am sure that that can easily be arranged.

Mr. Longden

Have not those who have opposed closer nuclear co-operation between allies an added duty to support the strengthening of conventional defence forces?

Lord Balniel

This is almost the inevitable, logical conclusion to draw from some of the arguments advanced by hon. Members opposite.

Mr. Paget

Is not the noble Lord being a little naive in this matter? He knows perfectly well that the Prime Minister is on record as having stated his strong support for Anglo-French nuclear co-operation, and that the French have put forward, as one of the main arguments for accepting Britain, that this new co-operation should act as a substitute for the Americans in Europe. In view of the record of France as an ally, both to the Czechoslovaks and ourselves, does not the noble Lord think that that is a bit rash?

Lord Balniel

If I recollect aright, some time ago in a most thoughtful lecture my right hon. Friend was talking about very long-term collaboration within Europe on nuclear matters. He has made it clear that in his discussions with the French Government the question of Anglo-French nuclear co-operation is not an issue during the E.E.C. negotiations.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

On a point of order. Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that my hon. Friends and I will seek an early opportunity of raising this matter on the Adjournment.