HL Deb 17 March 1983 vol 440 cc923-4WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether it is possible for cruise missiles to be launched from bases within the United Kingdom without being deployed outside those bases.

Lord Glenarthur

The normal concept of operations for the cruise missiles involves their deployment to suitable dispersed locations; they can however be operated from virtually any site with suitable geographical characteristics. Use of the cruise missiles will at all times be governed by the understanding on joint decision-making between the Government of the United Kingdom and the United States.

Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

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 that possible eventuality.

Lord Glenarthur

The use of nuclear weapons systems operating from United States bases in the United Kingdom is governed by the understanding on joint decision-making between the Governments of the United Kingdom and the United States summarised in the joint communiqué issued in January 1952.