HC Deb 23 October 1992 vol 212 c403W
Dr. Reid

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the implications of the United States energy appropriation legislation for(a) the United Kingdom's Trident warhead programme, (b) the WE177 replacement programme and (c) the ability of the United Kingdom to develop new nuclear warheads.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

There are no implications for the Trident warhead programme, the tests for which have been completed. No decision has been taken on WE177 replacement, but development of a suitable warhead could be completed even assuming that we are unable to test beyond 1996. It remains our view that a minimum programme of testing is the best means of ensuring the continuing safety and credibility of our deterrent.