Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 8 September 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 September 2008. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Monday, 15 September 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Poland: Ballistic Missile Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the Government's policy is on Poland's hosting of US missile defence facilities and Russia's position on such hosting; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The agreement between Poland and the US to establish a ballistic missile defence interceptor site on Polish territory is welcomed.The US ballistic missile defence assets in Europe will provide a limited defensive capability against a small number of states of concern who are currently seeking to develop or acquire ballistic missiles with the capability of striking Europe. Russia is fully aware of the capabilities, and limitations, of the planned US system, and are aware that their security should not, and could not, be threatened by it.

Secondary information