§ Mr. McNamaraasked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what is his policy on a nuclear-capable multi-launch rocket system;
(2) what is his policy on a nuclear-capable modular air-to-surface missile;
(3) what is his policy on the modernisation of the Lance missile;
(4) what is his policy on a nuclear-capable long range stand-off missile;
(5) what is his policy on a nuclear-capable Army tactical missile system.
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§ Mr. StanleyAt their meeting in Montebello, Canada, in October 1983, Ministers of NATO's Nuclear Planning Group agreed to the reduction of 1,400 nuclear warheads from NATO's nuclear stockpile. This was in addition to the reduction of 1,000 warheads agreed in 1979 and was to take place over several years. At the same time it was agreed that steps should be taken to ensure the survivability, responsiveness and effectiveness of remaining delivery systems and warheads.
SACEUR subsequently presented his recommendations for implementing these decisions at the Luxembourg meeting of NPG Ministers in March 1985. These recommendations are being pursued by SACEUR with the nations concerned, and progress with implementation is being kept under review by the NPG.
No decisions have been made affecting the modernisation of weapon systems in service with British forces; as my right hon. Friend the then Secretary of State for Defence said in the House on 26 November 1985 at column 742, if we have any announcements to make, they will be made in the House at the appropriate moment.