HC Deb 19 November 1991 vol 199 cc106-7W
Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his policy towards the negotiation of a comprehensive test ban treaty; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Garel-Jones

We are committed to a comprehensive test ban within the context of general and complete disarmament. Because our security will depend for the foreseeable future on deterrence based in part on the possession of nuclear weapons, we have a continuing need to carry out nuclear tests to maintain the effectiveness and safety of our deterrent.

Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how the United Kingdom delegate voted on the draft resolution on a comprehensive test ban treaty (Document A/C. 1/46/L.4) at the United Nations on 11 November.

Mr. Garel-Jones

The United Kingdom abstained on the resolution in the first committee.

Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his Department's policy towards a moratorium on United Kingdom nuclear tests.

Mr. Garel-Jones

We have a continuing need to carry out tests to maintain the effectiveness and safety of our nuclear deterrent.

Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his Department's policy towards a negotiated gradual reduction in the number of nuclear tests worldwide.

Mr. Garel-Jones

This is primarily a matter for the United States and Soviet Union. The United Kingdom has only a limited test programme.

Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his Department's assessment of the potential impact of a comprehensive test ban treaty on the futher proliferation of nuclear weapons.

Mr. Garel-Jones

The 1968 non-proliferation treaty—NPT—is the cornerstone of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime. A comprehensive test ban would not change the policies of those states not parties to the NPT, or prevent certain countries like Iraq who are parties to the treaty from seeking a nuclear capability.

Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his Department's assessment of the potential impact of a comprehensive test ban treaty on the United Kingdom's nuclear weapons arsenal.

Mr. Garel-Jones

For as long as the United Kingdom's security and that or our allies relies on our possession of a minimal nuclear deterrent, the United Kingdom will have a requirement to carry out tests from time to time.