The UK is at the heart of two recent critical initiatives to strengthen the global nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament regime. Noon this Wednesday 13 July is the deadline for tabling Foreign Affairs questions for 19 July, an opportunity for MPs to encourage the government to take further constructive leads in these matters.
UK Nuclear Weapons Policy and Diplomacy
Coalition split on post-Trident nuclear deterrent
Lord Browne of Ladyton, co-chair of BASIC's Trident Commission and defence secretary when the Blair government made its case for replacing Trident in 2007 – when it had to rely on Conservative votes – says he was not presented with sufficient facts and figures about the choices open to the government.
BASIC-TLG Roundtable on Trident Renewal
The BASIC-TLG roundtable, which took place in the House of Lords on October 12, 2010, discussed current UK policy and Its implications, and alternative ways forward for the UK.
Chatham House Rules were applied to this meeting and notes are not attributed to particular individuals.
British Budget Collapse Foreshadows Cuts to Come in U.S. Defense Budget
[Trident replacement would] “be easily the most expensive defense procurement project for the decade from 2015/6, sucking the finances out of other major projects.” says Paul Ingram, executive director of BASIC. To read more:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joe-cirincione/british-budget-collapse-f_b_769959.html
Image:
Prime Minister confirms Trident decision delayed “until around 2016”
Prime Minister David Cameron confirmed before Parliament today that based upon a completed “value for money review” of the United Kingdom's deterrent, “the decision to start construction of the new submarines need not now be taken until around 2016.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted other changes in the nuclear posture:
