§ 13. Mr. Gerald Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effect a one megaton nuclear overhead burst at a height of 300 miles would have on the equipment and resources in his care.
§ Mr. AncramThe Government's policy of deterrence is designed to prevent the use of nuclear weapons. If, however, such an explosion were to occur at 300 miles it would generate a nuclear electromagnetic pulse which could damage unprotected telecommunications and electrical and electronic equipment.
§ Mr. Moynihanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he is taking to harden vulnerable equipment in his charge against the effects of nuclear electromagnetic pulse.
§ Mr. AncramWe are awaiting the results of current research on this matter before deciding how best to protect vulnerable equipment.