§ Mr. Gerald HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has(a) made to and (b) received from the United States on the UK's participation in the development of missile defence in the past six months; and if he will make a statement on British participation. [176373]
§ Mr. HoonI have neither made representations to, nor received any from, the United States on the subject of the United Kingdom participation in US plans for1844W Missile Defence in the last six months. Missile Defence issues have been discussed in contacts with the US Defence Secretary and others. Officials also keep in close touch with the US Administration to monitor developments. On 5 February 2003, the Government announced that it had agreed to a US request for the upgrade of RAF Fylingdales to enable for missile defence purposes.