§ Dr. Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the proposed United Kingdom—United States of America anti-ballistic laser defence system with particular reference to the implications for his Department. [12590]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotNo decision has been taken on the requirement for a national ballistic missile defence capability. We are aware that a ballistic missile defence system is being developed in the United States of America which uses an airborne laser. Currently, there are no proposals for this to become a joint programme involving the United Kingdom.