Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 20 October 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 October 1999. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Monday, 25 October 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will list the Articles of the (a) Anti Ballistic Missile Treaty and (b) Outer Space Treaty, which govern the use of RAF Menwith Hill (i) as part of the National Missile Defense for the USA and (ii) as part of the Space Based Infra Red System (SBIRS).

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the Articles of the (a) Anti Ballistic Missile Treaty and (b) Outer Space Treaty, which govern the use of RAF Menwith Hill (i) as part of the National Missile Defense for the USA and (ii) as part of the Space Based Infra Red System (SBIRS). [95747] Mr. Spellar: The United Kingdom is not party to the Anti Ballistic Missile Treaty. Questions on its interpretation should be addressed to the USA and Russia. Article IV of the Outer Space Treaty requires that the moon and other celestial bodies should be used exclusively for peaceful purposes; prohibits placing weapons of mass destruction in orbit, on the moon or on other celestial bodies; and prohibits placing military facilities, conducting military manoeuvres, or the testing of any type of weapons on the moon and other celestial bodies. It imposes no limitations on other military activities in outer space.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 95747; 336 c704W
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Military bases Treaties Ballistic missile defence RAF Menwith Hill Spaceflight Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty