HC Deb 24 July 1984 vol 64 c817
18. Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if any discussions have been held with representatives of the United States Administration about a possible West European role in its strategic defence initiative; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Heseltine

Consultation between the United Kingdom and the United States on all aspects of defence policy is close and comprehensive, and has naturally been extended to include the implications of the strategic defence initiative announced by President Reagan in March 1983. The United States Government have made no proposals for west European involvement in the programme, although President Reagan has made it clear that there will be no lessening of the United States nuclear guarantee to Europe.

Mr. Cartwright

Can the Secretary of State say what implications for the Trident programme lie behind United States' activities over the strategic defence initiative?

Mr. Heseltine

I do not think that the hon. Gentleman would expect me to answer in precise terms about the conclusions of a development programme which it has not been determined shall proceed and which is very much at the exploratory and research stage.