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Part 6 U.K.Weapons of Mass Destruction

Nuclear weaponsU.K.

49 DefencesU.K.

(1)In proceedings for an offence under section 47(1)(c) or (d) relating to an object it is a defence for the accused to show that he did not know and had no reason to believe that the object was a nuclear weapon.

(2)But he shall be taken to have shown that fact if—

(a)sufficient evidence is adduced to raise an issue with respect to it; and

(b)the contrary is not proved by the prosecution beyond reasonable doubt.

(3)In proceedings for such an offence it is also a defence for the accused to show that he knew or believed that the object was a nuclear weapon but, as soon as reasonably practicable after he first knew or believed that fact, he took all reasonable steps to inform the Secretary of State or a constable of his knowledge or belief.