House of Commons · Urgent Question
10 July 2025 · 12 other contributors
Opened by James Cartlidge Con South Suffolk
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
James Cartlidge raised concerns about uk-france nuclear partnership 2025-07-10 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Will the Minister confirm the details of the UK-France nuclear partnership that is being announced today, including its implications for the operational independence and sovereign nature of the UK's Trident deterrent? The MP questions the transparency and adequacy of government communication on such significant defence matters.
Question
Can the Minister confirm whether we are placing orders for new Storm Shadow missiles from MBDA or simply reconditioning existing stocks, and how does this new nuclear doctrine affect NATO and our co-operation with the US? Also, will France join the NATO Nuclear Planning Group?
Minister reply
The agreement has no implications on Trident's operational independence; decisions remain sovereign. Co-ordination enhances deterrence against potential enemies but does not change dedication to NATO or involve tactical nuclear weapons development.
Question
How will this partnership maximise opportunities for UK industry, ensuring skills and infrastructure needed for credible deterrents in the long term?
Minister reply
Co-ordination efforts include provisions to support industries manufacturing complex weapons, aiding deterrence of potential adversaries threatening Europe.
Question
Will the Minister provide details on how increased co-ordination will work? Also, has progress been made on securing full access for UK defence firms to the EU Security Action fund?
Minister reply
Co-ordination involves research and development, with a joint arrangement between Élysée and Cabinet Office for decision-making. Discussions are ongoing but not complete regarding EU Security Action fund.
Question
Is the submarine patrol deconfliction part of this agreement? Will command of nuclear strike capability be incorporated into UK doctrine, and how will it work with Trident?
Minister reply
The hon. Gentleman's concern about delay is misplaced given that his Government did nothing for 14 years despite being in office. The agreement does not seek to acquire new nuclear weapons but will co-ordinate our response if vital interests are engaged, providing a greater deterrent.
Question
How will the Government's procurement policies support commercial collaborations between UK and French industries in the defence sector?
Minister reply
The refresh of the Lancaster House treaties includes co-operation on conventional forces, complex weapons, and supply chains. Increased defence spending offers opportunities for companies across the UK to benefit.
Question
Who will chair the nuclear steering group established by this agreement? What is its membership composition?
Minister reply
The Élysée and the Cabinet Office, in consultation with the Ministry of Defence, will establish a UK-France nuclear steering group for political direction on increased co-ordination across nuclear policy capabilities.
Question
How will this agreement enhance job creation in Scotland through defence collaborations?
Minister reply
The strategic defence review commits to increasing defence spending, offering opportunities for industry growth, skilled employment, and contract acquisition across all UK regions.
Question
Will France join the NATO nuclear planning group as part of this co-ordination? How will this affect our relationship with other P5 countries?
Minister reply
France's participation in NATO's nuclear planning group is a matter for them. The agreement ensures no extreme threat to Europe goes unanswered, reinforcing deterrence without changing existing relationships.
Question
How will this co-ordination affect our relationship with the United States within NATO?
Minister reply
This agreement does not change our close relationship with the US. The strategic forces of the US, UK, and France all contribute significantly to NATO's overall security.
Question
How can Northern Ireland play a role in strengthening our nuclear capability? What is the timeline for building up this capacity?
Minister reply
We are committed to building four replacement boats for continuous at-sea deterrent and doubling the construction of submarines over time, sending a strong signal to potential adversaries. General support has been found in the House.
Question
Are there any concerns about sharing intelligence with a separate political steering group outside NATO?
Minister reply
The steering group is for political policymaking rather than intelligence, and appropriate arrangements will be established if necessary.
Government Response
The UK and France have a longstanding history of cooperation in nuclear matters, contributing significantly to NATO security. The agreement to deepen this partnership is a commitment made by the Government's manifesto. Today’s announcement involves sharing research facilities, co-operating on technology under Lancaster House treaties from 2010, and reinforcing deterrence against extreme threats to Europe. A declaration will affirm that both nations' deterrents remain independent but can be coordinated; no change affects operational independence or sovereignty of Trident. The agreement does not alter UK's NATO commitments or nuclear doctrine.