HC Deb 23 March 1982 vol 20 c318W
27. Sir William van Straubenzee

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether, consequent upon the declaring of a nuclear-free zone by a local authority, he will vary his policy in relation to the siting of cruise missiles in the area.

Mr. Blaker

No. Responsibility for the security of the nation rests with central, not local, Government, and the Government will continue to take any steps necessary for this purpose, including those related to the deployment of cruise missiles in the United Kingdom as part of NATO's deterrent strategy.

28. Mr. Newens

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when the first cruise missiles deployed in Great Britain are likely to be operational.

Mr. Blaker

On current plans, at the end of 1983.

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