Lance Weapon System

Oral Answers to Questions — Defence – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 9 April 1974.

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Photo of Mr Patrick Wall Mr Patrick Wall , Haltemprice 12:00, 9 April 1974

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the re-equipment of the British Army with the Lance weapon system.

Photo of Mr Roy Mason Mr Roy Mason , Barnsley

The hon. Member will be aware that the previous administration made arrangements, in collaboration with our allies, for the purchase of Lance as a replacement for Honest John.

Photo of Mr Patrick Wall Mr Patrick Wall , Haltemprice

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the present tactical nuclear weapons of BAOR are obsolete and undertake to continue the policy of the previous Government of replacing Honest John by the Lance weapon system?

Photo of Mr Roy Mason Mr Roy Mason , Barnsley

Yes, I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance. However, all these weapons systems will be subject to review during the next few months when I undertake my major defence review.

Photo of Mr Ian Gilmour Mr Ian Gilmour , Chesham and Amersham

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us when the review is likely to be finished and when we may expect the White Paper?

Photo of Mr Roy Mason Mr Roy Mason , Barnsley

The White Paper will not be available until the review is complete, which will be towards the end of this year.