Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
2021-02-01
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the recent assessment of the treaty's effectiveness, noting that it is aimed at prohibiting nuclear weapons.
What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons?
The Government have been clear that they will not sign the treaty and welcome the US offer to extend the new START—strategic arms reduction treaty—with Russia, supporting its robust verification mechanisms.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expressed deep disappointment and frustration over Scotland and UK's failure to join other countries in signing the treaty on prohibition of nuclear weapons.
Why did the UK fail to support this treaty, and how is it consistent with its strategic objectives under article VI of the NPT?
The Government did not sign up to the treaty because they believe it is not effective, preferring the nuclear non-proliferation treaty as a more effective way of reducing both spread and number of nuclear weapons through gradual multilateral disarmament.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific explanation on alignment with strategic objectives under article VI was not provided
Under Review
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned why global Britain is not aligning with global consensus on prohibiting nuclear weapons, asking for bold steps to sign the treaty.
Why will the Government not take the bold steps of signing this treaty and remove Trident from the shores?
The UK believes in nuclear weapons as a deterrent against aggressive powers such as North Korea, supporting multilateral disarmament rather than unilateral actions. They aim to reduce nuclear holdings around the world through multilateral negotiations.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on bold steps and removing Trident was not given
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Response accuracy