HC Deb 27 November 2000 vol 357 cc626-7
10. Mr. Graham Brady (Altrincham and Sale, West)

What his assessment is of the threat to the UK from nuclear weapons. [138581]

The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Geoffrey Hoon)

We assess that there is no significant threat to the United Kingdom from nuclear weapons at present, but we continue to monitor developments very closely.

Mr. Brady

I am grateful to the Secretary of State for his response. Does he accept that within five years the Iranian regime may have the capacity to produce nuclear weapons? Does not that make it essential for the British Government to give full support to America's steps towards ballistic missile defence?

Mr. Hoon

The hon. Gentleman needs to distinguish carefully between a threat to the United States, which is the current concern of national missile defence, and a threat to the United Kingdom. As I said earlier, we continue to monitor threats from around the world as they might affect the United Kingdom and our allies.

Mr. Lawrie Quinn (Scarborough and Whitby)

My right hon. Friend knows of my interest in RAF Fylingdales, which is adjacent to my constituency. The people of Scarborough, Whitby and the north York moors are very interested in who will form the future American Administration. If a President Bush is appointed, many people in my constituency will be concerned about the likely effect on my part of the world, which may become a defence target. What discussions has my right hon. Friend had about the future of RAF Fylingdales in that respect?

Mr. Hoon

The Americans have decided, for the moment at any rate, not to take national missile defence forward, and will not therefore be making any requests of the United Kingdom in relation to Fylingdales or any other facility that might be available until they reach a decision.

Mr. Crispin Blunt (Reigate)

The next United States Administration is likely to take ballistic missile defence forward at an early stage. If they do so, will they have the involvement and support of the United Kingdom?

Mr. Hoon

When and if a new Administration is appointed in the United States, and when and if they reach that conclusion, we might well consider it.