HL Deb 11 June 1986 vol 476 cc379-80WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether it is their intention that studies and discussions relating to "Anti-Tactical Missile" (ATM) defences and the "European Architecture" should be conducted (a) under United States SDI auspices and direction and (b) at United States expense; whether British and/or other European financial participation is being proposed or asked for by the United States authorities; whether these matters are covered by the Memoranda of Understanding the United States has signed with the United Kingdom, the Federal Republic of Germany, Portugal and Israel; and what discussions and consultation within IEPG and other European/NATO groups are being held.

Lord Trefgarne

It is the Government's intention that studies and discussions relating to "Anti-Tactical Missile" (ATM) defences should be conducted under NATO auspices. This issue is currently being studied in a number of NATO fora, including the IEPG and AGARD, and we consider that the most appropriate body to co-ordinate and take forward Alliance consideration of the whole question of developing European Air Defence is likely to be the NATO Air Defence Committee (NADC).

On "European Architecture" there is nothing to add to the Answer given to the noble Lord on 7th May (col. 812) together with that given by my noble friend, Lord Glenarthur, on 16th May (cols. 1390–1392).