HC Deb 06 March 1990 vol 168 cc720-1
12. Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are his latest plans to deploy a new tactical air-to-surface missile.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

We are currently studying options for the replacement of our WE177 free-fall nuclear bomb. Both French and American systems are being looked at, but as yet no decisions have been taken. It is not our practice to comment on the individual systems under consideration.

Mr. Flynn

Will the Minister confirm that as cruise missiles depart from Britain they will be replaced by a deadlier and more numerous short-range attack missile—SRAM-T? Is not this a deceit of disarmament and in reality massive rearmament by stealth, and rearmament which is wasteful and futile? When will the Ministry of Defence follow the fine example of the United States and our European partners and answer a changing world situation with a flexible response?

Mr. Hamilton

I am glad that the hon. Gentleman mentioned flexible response. That is and remains a key element of NATO strategy and there is no question of a breach of the INF treaty, which is for land-based missile systems.

Mr. Bill Walker

Does my hon. Friend agree that in the real world if a pilot is to deliver a free-fall bomb against sophisticated air defences he must fly low and fast and that he must be capable of getting back? That is why it is necessary to have a stand-off capability so that pilots—and very expensive pilots they are—are not exposed to this kind of risk.

Mr. Hamilton

My hon. Friend is right; we must have a stand-off capability. We must also have pilots who are trained to fly low so that they can penetrate enemy radar.

Mr. Graham

Does the Minister realise that missiles are tested and stored in the Bishopton Royal Ordnance factory, which covers a huge part of Renfrewshire? The Secretary of State is prepared to withdraw the Ministry of Defence police who guard the area and who are always available to use arms if the factory is invaded by terrorists or criminals. The Secretary of State did not reply to my letters requesting a meeting regarding the storage of missiles and weapons, yet he is prepared to allow my area to be left in danger. Does he realise that 250,000 people will be placed in danger because of his stupidity and ineptitude?

Mr. Hamilton

I am very unclear what that supplementary question has to do with the replacement of the WE177 free-fall bomb. The security at former royal ordnance factories, whether or not it is carried out by Ministry of Defence police, is paid for by Royal Ordnance. That is why other provisions have been made for security at Royal Ordnance factories. I am sure that security is being maintained at an appropriate level.