Trident Alternatives Review

Debate between Bob Ainsworth and Danny Alexander

Wednesday 17th July 2013 Commons Chamber

[Danny Alexander]

That is of course a legitimate point for political debate, but the purpose of the review was to consider alternative nuclear weapon systems that could act as a deterrent. The review was never designed to consider the option of unilateral disarmament, although the hon. Lady is free to argue for that.

[Mr Bob Ainsworth (Coventry North East) (Lab)]

rose—

[Danny Alexander]

I give way to the former Secretary of State.

[Mr Ainsworth]

If this was the most comprehensive examination of our nuclear weapons system in a generation, why did the right hon. Gentleman not take evidence from individuals outside government?

[Danny Alexander]

It was a review conducted within government, taking advice from senior officials, as with every other government review. Indeed, the right hon. Gentleman has been involved in such reviews in the past, and I am sure he knows better.