(1)   What is his department’s assessment of the recent statement by Admiral Lowell Jacoby, Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, that North Korea has the capability to arm a missile with a nuclear weapon.

(2)   What is the department’s assessment of North Korea’s relationship with Iran with respect to nuclear technology.

(3)   What is the department’s assessment of the strategic impact of a successful North Korean nuclear test on countries in the region, such as South Korea and Japan.

(1)   The department’s views on the matters raised in the question are based on a range of sources, underpinned notably by classified intelligence. The department is, therefore, not in a position to provide a substantive response.

(2)   See answer to (1).

(3)   The department is aware of recent speculation that North Korea may be preparing to test a nuclear weapon. A North Korean nuclear test would be a grave development that would seriously escalate the nuclear crisis and deepen North Korea’s isolation. Australia stands firm with the international community in pursuing the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, and in steadfastly opposing a North Korean nuclear test. Should North Korea undertake a nuclear test, Australia would respond firmly.