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Written question asked by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Thursday, 21 May 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 5 June 2020. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 8 June 2020 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

New START Treaty

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of the United States about the possible renewal of the New START Treaty next year.

Answer

We recognise the contribution the New START Treaty has made to international security by increasing transparency and mutual confidence amongst the two largest Nuclear Weapons States. The Treaty has delivered a reduction of strategic nuclear arsenals, enhanced notably by its robust verification mechanism. However, we are also clear that New START has limitations. It does not include new Russian systems. Nor does it place any limits on China's growing nuclear arsenal. We therefore support the US Government's trilateral strategic arms control initiative.

We have regular discussions with the Government of the United States on these issues and have made clear that we support the continued implementation of New START. We have also encouraged the US to extend the Treaty while negotiating any successor agreement.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4879
Session
2019-21
Subjects
USA New START Treaty
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk