HL Deb 11 April 1983 vol 441 cc91-2WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will now answer the Written Question to which they did not address themselves in their Answer of 17th March (col. 924) namely:

"Whether the possible launching of cruise missiles requires the specific and immediate agreement of the Prime Minister, or whether the 'use' of the bases already agreed covers the possible eventuality."

Lord Glenarthur

My Answer of 17th March provided the noble Lord with a full reply to his Question. It explained that any use of nuclear weapons systems operating from United States bases in the United Kingdom would be governed by the understanding summarised in the joint communique issued in January 1952. As the communique makes clear, the understanding provides for a joint decision to be made in an emergency by Her Majesty's Government and the United States Government in the light of the circumstances at the time.