§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the speech of Admiral Sir Peter Abbott, Commander-in-Chief Fleet, to the Royal United Services Institution on 17th October 1996 had been cleared with Ministers and whether it now represents government policy; and
What meaning is to be attached to the following phrases in Admiral Sir Peter Abbott's speech: "pre-emptive deterrence", "retribution", "potential target nations", and "above all [continuing] to encourage and support the USA's efforts to police the world".
Earl HoweMinisterial clearance is not required for addresses given to private bodies such as the Royal United Services Institute, whose purpose is to encourage debate of relevant issues. The speech did not represent government policy; rather, Admiral Abbott was developing a personal view, contributing to just such an academic debate. The issues raised in it are already in the public domain.
As the speech reflected a personal view only, it is not appropriate for Ministers to comment on the meaning which might be attached to particular phrases in the text.