§ Mr. Trippierasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether steps have been taken within the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation to collaborate in the development of (a) an explosion resistant multi-influence sweep system for mines, (b) electro-optical devices, (c) a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation anti-surface ship missile; or (d) a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation small surface-to-air ship self-defence system; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieExtensive collaborative work has already been undertaken under the direction of the NATO conference of national armaments directors in all the areas mentioned. Discussions and studies are continuing in the light of relevant operational, financial and industrial considerations.
§ Mr. Trippierasked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made towards the development of a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation defence research programme.
§ Mr. PattieAs my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for the Armed Forces explained on 18 May—[Vol. 229W 5, c. 42]—in reply to a similar question, an extensive programme of defence research activity is already under way within NATO.