HC Deb 20 June 1985 vol 81 c186W
Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Her Majesty's Government have been consulted by the United States Administration about current improvements in the range and capability of cruise missiles based in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stanley

I understand from the United States authorities that no such improvements that are of material significance are currently being made.

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether Her Majesty's Government have been consulted about changes in the targeting arrangements for United States Air Force ground-launched cruise missiles stationed in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stanley

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Walthamstow (Mr. Deakins) on 17 January 1985, at column 185.

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if Her Majesty's Government will make it their policy not to accede to any request from the Administration of the United States of America for either temporary or permanent United Kingdom basing facilities for United States Air Force B-52 strategic bombers, carrying, or equipped to carry, air-launched cruise missiles; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if Her Majesty's Government have received any representations from any branch of the United States Administration with regard to the possible provision of temporary or permanent United Kingdom basing facilities for United States Air Force B-52 strategic bomber aircraft, of any category, equipped with, or with the capability to carry, internal or external air-launched cruise missiles; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lee

I have nothing to add to the answer my right hon. Friend gave the hon. Member on 18 June 1984.