HC Deb 15 January 1990 vol 165 c122W
Mr. David Young

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose of the laser weapon fitted to HMS Coventry; what is its applicability as a weapon for all services; whether the manufacturer is British; and if he will make a statement about his policy on the introduction of the laser weapon.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

Laser dazzle devices have been developed as an additional, non-lethal means of self-defence for Her Majesty's ships. They are supplied by the British company, Irwin-Desman Limited. The Government's aim in equipping Royal Navy ships with such devices is to safeguard the lives of British service men.

Mr. Macdonald

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what is his Department's policy on the use by Royal Navy ships of the laser dazzle sight system during naval exercises;

(2) whether Royal Navy ships have used the laser dazzle sight system during naval exercises; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Neubert

The laser dazzle device is not used by the Royal Navy during naval exercises.