Nuclear Weapons: Safety and Reliability

HL Deb 09 June 1999 vol 601 cc168-9WA

Lord Wedderburn of Charlton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What plans they have to ensure the integrity of the UK's nuclear weapon stockpile in the absence of underground weapon testing. [HL2855]

Lord Gilbert

To underwrite the safety and reliability of our nuclear weapons in the absence of underground testing, we have recently approved plans to invest in the US National Ignition Facility. This will be a joint venture under the auspices of the 1958 UK/US Mutual Defence Agreement. It will guarantee the UK access to a high powered laser, which is a key element of our stewardship programme.