§ Mr. SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about the co-ordination of French, British and US nuclear forces within NATO, with particular reference to the role of the French Government. [12124]
§ Mr. David DavisAs the alliance has made clear in its strategic concept, the supreme guarantee of the security of the allies is provided by the strategic nuclear forces of the alliance, particularly those of the United States. The independent nuclear forces of the United Kingdom, which are also assigned to the alliance, and of France contribute to the overall deterrence and security of the allies. NATO's strategy includes a requirement for widespread participation by European allies in collective defence planning in nuclear roles, in peacetime basing of nuclear forces on their territory and in command, control and consultation arrangements. France does not participate in NATO's collective defence planning and has not assigned its nuclear forces to NATO.