§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his Department's current policy on the retention of the right to conduct safety tests under the comprehensive nuclear test ban regime currently being negotiated in Geneva.
§ Mr. AitkenThe Government are committed to playing an active and constructive part in the negotiation of a comprehensive nuclear test ban. We will look for a verifiable and effective prohibition of all nuclear tests, with the aim of making a contribution to our international non-proliferation objectives. Previously, a minimal programme of nuclear testing has been an important part of proving the safety and reliability of our nuclear warheads. We now aim to use and develop alternative technologies.