§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department's policy in respect of the proposal to build a high-powered laser facility at AWE Aldermaston has changed since 5 July 1999. [173861]
Mr. Ingram: The Ministry of Defence is currently considering a new proposal for a laser facility at AWE to replace the existing HELEN laser. In 2001, because of time and cost overruns on the United States National Ignition Facility, it was decided not to continue with plans, announced on 5 July 1999, Official Report, column 341W, to build a United Kingdom target chamber attached to that facility.