Ballistic Missiles (Hansard, 12 November 1998)

§ Mr. Alan Simpson
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 27 October 1998,Official Report, column 112, if he will list the areas of common interest the United Kingdom has with the United States of America in connection with ballistic missile defence research; and if he will give the establishments at which the research is undertaken. [58206]

§ Mr. George Robertson
The areas of common interest the UK has with the USA in connection with ballistic missile research are many, the most significant being, performance of radars and other sensors, the guidance of interceptors, understanding the characteristics of ballistic missiles, the effective interception of ballistic missile warheads, and operating in coalition with Allies in air defence. The Defence Evaluation and Research Agency leads the programmes, working in close partnership with UK industry.

§ Mr. Colvin
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consultations he has carried out during his review of ballistic missile attack risks to the United Kingdom; and when he plans to produce his report. [57916]

§ Mr. George Robertson
Britain's approach to Ballistic Missile Defence was considered as part of the Strategic Defence Review. Supporting Essay 5, published as part of our report on the Strategic Defence Review, set out our conclusion that the risk to Britain from the ballistic missiles of nations of concern was many years off. This conclusion was based on a careful review and assessment of the intelligence information available to the Ministry of Defence from a variety of sources. As indicated in the Essay, we are continuing to monitor the position, and remain in close touch with our Allies.
Separately, we have undertaken a detailed review of other capabilities required to maintain a coherent national defence response to the risks posed by nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, also referred to in the discussion of defence responses to proliferation in Supporting Essay 5. The conclusions of this review will be given to the House shortly.