HC Deb 24 February 1972 vol 831 c363W
Mr. Woof

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the purpose of the British nuclear deterrent.

Lord Balniel

The primary purpose of Britain's nuclear armoury is to contribute to N.A.T.O.'s deterrent posture. Our nuclear weapons also provide the final deterrent to aggression against this country.

Mr. Woof

asked the Minister of State for Defence whether, in view of the dangers inherent in the proliferation of nuclear weapons, he will take steps to discontinue the stockpiling of British weapons of this type.

Lord Balniel

No. British nuclear weapons are a valuable contribution to the Western Alliance and to our national security. There is no conflict with the Non-Proliferation Treaty the provisions of which we shall continue to observe.