Campaign reply - EDM 98 against the government’s decision to host US nuclear weapons in the UK

Thank you for contacting me about nuclear weapons in the UK. 

Last year, the Government published its integrated review of security, defence, development and foreign policy.  This makes clear that the UK would only consider using nuclear weapons in extreme circumstances of self-defence, including the defence of our NATO Allies.

While the UK’s resolve and capability to do so if necessary is beyond doubt, it makes sense for the UK to remain deliberately ambiguous about precisely when, how and at what scale the use of nuclear weapons would be contemplated. 

I am encouraged that UK has committed to not use, or threaten to use, nuclear weapons against any non-nuclear weapon state party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons 1968. However, assurance rightly does not apply to any state in material breach of those non-proliferation obligations.

I know that the UK takes its responsibilities as a nuclear weapon state seriously and will continue to encourage other states to do likewise. The avoidance of war between Nuclear-Weapon States and the reduction of strategic risks are the Government’s foremost responsibilities and it will always endeavour to do everything in its power to reduce the likelihood of nuclear conflict, including resolving issues peacefully and diplomatically wherever possible.

PPSs do not by convention sign EDMs, as doing so is likely to breach the Ministerial Code’s rules on collective responsibility. While I appreciate the points you raise, US spending decisions and capabilities are a matter for the US Government only, and therefore the Ministry of Defence is unable to comment on such matters. In addition, it remains a longstanding UK and NATO policy to neither confirm nor deny the presence of nuclear weapons at a given location.

 

Once again, thank you for taking the time to write. If you require any further assistance, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.