Written question asked by Llew Smith (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 21 May 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Friday, 21 May 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To 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 5th July 1999. - Inc ref to 5 July 1999, 334 c340-1W.

Answer: Llew Smith: To 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.

Secondary information