HL Deb 08 May 1986 vol 474 cc952-3WA
Lord Jenkins of Putney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether legislation to grant them emergency powers which they have agreed with the United States Government would have to be passed by Parliament or could be effected by Order in Council; and whether it is provided in the agreement they have reached that the enforcement of any such powers in emergency shall be delegated to United States forces.

Lord Trefgarne

There have been no such agreements with the United States Government. As the Prime Minister has already made clear, successive governments have kept under review preparations against attack, including the need for emergency legislation. However, the content and introduction of such powers would be for consideration by the governments and Parliament of the day, having regard to all the circumstances at the time.