§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made since 11 September on the potential value of national missile defence for the United Kingdom. [25451]
§ Mr. HoonThe position remains unchanged. We understand the potential role missile defence can play as one element of a comprehensive strategy to tackle a ballistic missile threat. What the events of 11 September show is that there are those who will seek to threaten with whatever means are available the US, its friends and allies.
§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what considerations he is giving to the development of a ballistic missile defence system for the UK. [25790]
§ Mr. HoonWe continue to assess the threat posed by ballistic missiles. We also continue to assess ballistic missile defence technology, which is evolving rapidly. We do so in the context of needing to tackle the threat with a comprehensive strategy and broad range of defensive measures. We fully support the continuing NATO Theatre Missile Defence Feasibility Studies, and we have a long-standing technical dialogue with the US on the subject of ballistic missile defence. We believe that it remains premature to decide on acquiring a ballistic missile defence capability for either deployed forces or defence of the UK. But we recognise the role ballistic missile defence can play, and our options remain open.
§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects the NATO theatre ballistic missile defence feasibility studies to conclude. [25794]