Written question asked by Jim Cousins (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 February 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 9 March 2004. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 March 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he expects his Department's research into theatre ballistic missile defence to be able to report interim results and conclusions to (a) him and (b) Parliament; and what theatre ballistic missile defence is available to UK forces now.

Answer: Mr. Cousins: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects his Department's research into theatre ballistic missile defence to be able to report interim results and conclusions to (a) him and (b) Parliament; and what theatre ballistic missile defence is available to UK forces now. [157052] Mr. Hoon: I expect to receive a report on the Ministry of Defence's three-year research programme into Theatre Ballistic Missile Defence this summer, but due to its classification, there are no plans to publish the report. I shall keep Parliament informed in the usual way, once I have had a chance to consider the report. Defence against theatre ballistic missiles comprises a number of components, including steps to prevent and counter proliferation, diplomatic measures, deterrence and passive and active defence. Passive defence may involve the dispersal of forces and the provision of protective equipment against nuclear, biological or chemical weapons. Within a coalition force, allied partners provide the active defence.

Secondary information