Written question asked by Austin Mitchell (Labour) on Monday, 17 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 December 1997. It was answered by Lord Robertson of Port Ellen (Labour) on Monday, 1 December 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, If he will comment on the total cost of the British nuclear deterrent over the next four years. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the total cost of the British nuclear deterrent over the next four years. [16797] Mr. George Robertson: The total procurement cost for Trident is estimated to be £12.6 billion. Average running costs have been estimated at £200 million a year over the 30 year lifetime of the system. We are examining the basis upon which cost estimates have been calculated in the light of operating experience as part of the wider Strategic Defence Review.

Secondary information