§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what tests of nuclear weapons have taken place in the last five years; whether they have been to test the effectiveness of the weapons or in connection with modernisation; where such tests took place; and what notification was given to any international bodies.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe following joint UK-US nuclear tests have been held in the last five years:
- Kinibito—5 December 1985
- Darwin—25 June 1986
- Midland—16 July 1987
- Barnwell—8 December 1989
All were conducted at the Nevada test site. Such tests are carried out in order to maintain the effectiveness of the United Kingdom's nuclear weapons capability. In line with standard practice, all were simultaneously announced in London and Washington 30 minutes after shot time; no specific notifications were given to any international body.