§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what authority the US Government sought from his Department before commencing the construction of an anti-ballistic missile system at RAF Menwith Hill. [108893]
§ Mr. SpellarRAF Menwith Hill is the site for the European Relay Ground Station of the US Space Based Infra Red System (SBIRS). SBIRS is designed to detect and provide information on the launch of ballistic missiles. As Her Majesty's Government retain legal ownership and control of all sites made available to the United States Visiting Forces in the UK, it was necessary for the US to seek permission to construct the SBIRS European Relay Ground Station at RAF Menwith Hill. Permission was granted in March 1997.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations his Department has received from the French Government in respect of anti-ballistic missile developments at RAF Menwith Hill. [108897]
§ Mr. SpellarNone.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the anti-ballistic missile defence system being constructed at RAF Menwith Hill will provide protection from attack for the United Kingdom. [108895]
§ Mr. SpellarRAF Menwith Hill is the site for the European Relay Ground Station of the US Space Based Infra Red System (SBIRS). SBIRS is designed to detect and provide information on the launch of ballistic missiles, but offers no physical protection. It will upgrade the detection and warning capabilities that currently contribute to the defence and security of the UK and NATO.