The UK's nuclear weapons policy The UK's nuclear weapons policy
was set out in detail in the 1998 Strategic Defence Review
(SDR).Strategic Defence Review In that document, the Government
said that it is 'committed to the goal of the global elimination
of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. We will work to
create conditions in which even a minimum level of nuclear
deterrence is no longer necessary. Until then, Britain will
maintain the minimum level of nuclear deterrent necessary to
prevent the possibility of major war in Europe. At the same
time, we will work to remove the risk of proliferation of
nuclear, biological and chemical weapons world-wide, while
maintaining a robust defensive capability to protect British
interests in the event of their use.' 'The Government's General
Election Manifesto therefore promised to retain Trident as the
ultimate guarantee of the United Kingdom's security while
pressing for multilateral negotiations towards mutual, balanced
and verifiable reductions in nuclear weapons