§ Mr. Tony BennTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what advice he has sought on the legality of British nuclear deterrence policy; [102127]
(2) what review of nuclear targeting policy he has conducted since the International Court of Justice advisory opinion on the Legality of the Threat or Use of Nuclear Weapons of 8 July 1996; and if he will make a statement. [102126]
§ Mr. HoonLegal considerations are always taken into account in the formulation and application of defence policy. I am confident that our nuclear policy and posture, as set out most recently in the Strategic Defence Review, is entirely compatible with our obligations under international law.
§ Mr. Tony BennTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence which section or sections of his Department are responsible for nuclear targeting policy. [102125]
§ Mr. HoonOur nuclear missiles are not targeted. Within the Ministry of Defence, the Chief of the Defence Staff acts as principal adviser on the operational deployment of our nuclear deterrent. He is supported in this role by a range of senior officers and officials.