HC Deb 07 November 2002 vol 392 cc479-80W
Jeremy Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what estimates have been made of the cost of United Kingdom participation in national missile defence; and if he will make a statement. [79652]

Mr. Hoon

No precise estimates can be made at this stage. The United States itself has made no decision on the final shape of its overall missile defence architecture and its final costs have yet to be determined. There are no specific options for the deployment of missile defences for the United Kingdom to assess, and no decision has been made on the acquisition of missile defences.

Jeremy Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations have been received from research bodies on peace campaigns concerning national missile defence; and if they will be published by his Department. [79657]

Mr. Hoon

The Ministry of Defence has received numerous representations from various bodies and individuals concerning missile defence; publication of their letters is a matter for them.

Jeremy Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions have been held with other NATO member states on the cost, timescale and purpose of national missile defence. [79658]

Mr. Hoon

NATO is studying the options for missile defence specifically for the protection of deployed forces, in addition to discussions on a wider range of missile defence issues. The United Kingdom participates in these NATO discussions, and also engages NATO allies bilaterally on missile defence issues as part of our regular contacts.

Jeremy Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what expenditure has been incurred at(a) RAF Fylingdales and (b) Menwith Hill in connection with National Missile Defence; and if he will make a statement. [79694]

Mr. Hoon

We have not received a request from the United States to site elements of missile defence in the United Kingdom, and have not incurred expenditure on any works at RAF Fylingdales or RAF Menwith Hill in preparation for, or anticipation of, any such request.

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