Lib Dems: Trident decision must not be rushed

Liberal Democrat leader Menzies Campbell has warned the government not to rush the decision on Britain's nuclear weapons system, Trident.

On Friday, he said the lifespan of the current system should be extended to allow greater consultation with Britain's allies on the need for a nuclear deterrent, although he indicated he would support keeping a limited number of nuclear warheads.

And on the eve of today's government white paper on the issue, Sir Menzies said: "There is no need to rush to judgment on a replacement for Trident.

"The decision can be delayed, as the defence select committee has already concluded.

"We can maintain the present system with half the number of warheads and still provide the necessary insurance for Britain's security, while making a real contribution to the cause of multilateral disarmament."