§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether there is a strategic requirement for the United Kingdom to retain the capability to produce nitro-cellulose and nitro-glycerine for small arms ammunition; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AitkenWe do not regard the maintenance of this capability in the United Kingdom as a strategic necessity. As with all elements of the defence industrial base, however, we monitor developments in the industry carefully.