Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their assessment of the two new low-yield nuclear weapons, submarine-launched cruise missile and submarine-launched ballistic missile, contained within the US nuclear posture review; and what are the implications of the introduction of those weapons for NATO security and strategic stability with Russia.

The US Nuclear Posture Review reflects the worsening security situation in the world. It seeks to ensure a credible and capable deterrence against the threats we face. The review also makes clear that the US decision to modify a small number of existing warheads to provide a low yield option and, in the longer term, to pursue a new sea-launched cruise missile, are intended to enhance deterrence and to counter perception of an exploitable gap in US capabilities. NATO will remain a nuclear alliance for as long as nuclear weapons exist.