Defence Secretary welcomes Commons vote to maintain Trident

Defence Secretary Des Browne said:

"I welcome the House of Commons vote which endorses the position set out by the Government in the recent White Paper, ‘The Future of the UK’s Nuclear Deterrent’.

"I recognise that this is a difficult issue for some and respect the views expressed by MPs and members of the public. Today’s Parliamentary debate followed an extensive period of debate and discussion which we believe gave everyone the opportunity to consider the issues and express their views.

"In the end it is the Government’s duty to protect its citizens in an uncertain world. We believe we need to take a decision now, and we need to be clear what this decision means – it is a firm commitment to maintaining our deterrent for the security of future generations.

"The White Paper indicates that further decisions will be required on the precise design of the submarines, and whether to renew or replace the warhead. It is for future parliaments to find the most appropriate form of scrutiny for these later decisions.

"I am sure debate will continue – that, like today’s vote, is part of a healthy democracy."

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