§ MS StuartTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to ensure the future integrity of the UK's nuclear weapon stockpile in the absence of underground weapon stockpile in the absence of underground weapon testing. [86701]
§ Mr. George RobertsonI announced in the Strategic Defence Review that for as long as the United Kingdom has nuclear forces we will ensure that we have a robust capability to underwrite the integrity of our nuclear wareheads without recourse to nuclear testing.As part of330W that I have approved investment in the US National Ignition Facility (NIF). This will guarantee the United Kingdom access to a high-powered laser, which is a key element of our stewardship programme. Participation in the NIF will be a joint venture under the auspices of the 1958 UK/US Mutual Defence Agreement.