HC Deb 23 January 1963 vol 670 c65W
Mr. Mason

asked the Minister of Defence whether it will be necessary for further testing of nuclear devices to perfect a nuclear warhead for a Polaris missile.

Mr. Thorneycroft

A nuclear warhead can be made available for the Polaris missile without further testing. Whether further testing would be desirable for the development of future types of warhead depends on detailed studies which are not yet complete.

Mr. Mason

asked the Minister of Defence whether the credibility of Polaris will still be effective by the time a British Polaris submarine fleet has been built.

Mr. Thorneycroft

In my judgment and on all the advice I have, yes and for many years thereafter.

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