Trident Alternatives Review

Debate between Danny Alexander and Bob Ainsworth
Wednesday 17th July 2013

(11 years, 10 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Danny Alexander Portrait Danny Alexander
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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.

Danny Alexander Portrait Danny Alexander
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I give way to the former Secretary of State.

Bob Ainsworth Portrait Mr Ainsworth
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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 Portrait Danny Alexander
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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.