§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements exist with the Russian Federation and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation to ensure that the Russian military or Government do not misinterpret as offensive the testing of rockets launched for scientific research with particular reference to the launch in Norway on 25 January.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI have been asked to reply.
None. However, the Norwegian Government have confirmed that, in line with long-standing bilateral arrangements with Russia, the launch on 25 January was notified in advance to the Russian authorities through diplomatic channels.