§ Mr. Newensasked the Prime Minister whether she has the right of veto over the use of United States nuclear weapons based in Great Britain in all circumstances; and if she will make a statement.
The Prime Minister: The understanding relating to the use by the United States of certain bases in the United Kingdom has often been referred to in the House. It was first reached between 322W Mr. Attlee and President Truman in 1951 and was confirmed in 1952 by Mr. Churchill and President Truman. The understanding which continues to apply today provides that the use of these bases in an emergency would be a matter for joint decision by Her Majesty's Government and the United States Government in the light of the circumstances prevailing at the time.