Written question asked by Manuela Perteghella (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 19 November 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 November 2024. It was answered by Luke Pollard (Labour) on Wednesday, 27 November 2024 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Nuclear Weapons

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to ensure the independence of the nuclear deterrent; and if he will take steps to reduce reliance on the US for the (a) testing, (b) maintenance, and (c) replacement of missiles.

Answer

The United Kingdom’s nuclear deterrent is completely operationally independent. Only the Prime Minister can authorise the use of our nuclear weapons, even if they are to be employed as part of a NATO response.

We have a close and longstanding relationship with the US on all nuclear issues. One result of this close relationship is that we are able to procure certain non-nuclear components from the US, most notably the Trident II D5 missile, significantly reducing the cost of our nuclear deterrent capability.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 15093
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Nuclear weapons Procurement Testing USA
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Nuclear Weapons

Secondary information

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