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Government to invest in Trident and nuclear capability

Summary

Since 1956, the Trident nuclear-powered submarines have contributed to the UK’s military defences.

In this White Paper, the Government reaffirms its commitment to maintaining Britain's independent nuclear capability – proposals include investing in a new generation of ballistic missile-carrying submarines and extending the life of the Trident D5 missile.

The Government believes this decision balances national security against it’s commitment to multilateral disarmament and countering nuclear proliferation.

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Law-Making Explained

This is a White Paper (HC 1633-I) from the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

Find out more about White Papers.

How does it affect me?

If you are interested in Britain's independent nuclear capability, this affects you.

The White Paper sets out the reasons why decisions on the future of the UK's nuclear deterrent system are needed now, as well as considering the various options and their costs, and the industrial aspects involved in building the new submarines in the UK.

There will now be a three-month consultation period to explain the thinking behind this and to hear the public reaction.

Visit the Cabinet Office list of public consultations or see the Ministry of Defence website for more on current public consultations.

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