HC Deb 02 April 1998 vol 309 c605W
Dr. Lynne Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what legal advice he has obtained on whether the UK would be in contravention of the Non- Proliferation Treaty if it were to replace or upgrade Trident warheads; [36586]

(2) if he has sought legal advice on whether the UK would be in contravention of the Non-Proliferation Treaty if it were to replace or upgrade Trident warheads. [36585]

Mr. George Robertson

There is nothing in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to prevent the recognised nuclear powers taking steps to ensure the effectiveness of their nuclear forces. The UK has, however, no current requirement or plans for any upgrade or improvement to the Trident warhead or missile.