Written question asked by Margaret Ewing (Scottish National Party), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 January 1996. It was answered by Lord Soames of Fletching (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 January 1996 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: What arrangements exist for the safety of (a) military and (b) civilian populations in the event of a nuclear leak from Trident. - Inc ref to "Statement on the Defence Estimates 1995".

Answer: Mrs. Ewing: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements exist for the safety of (a) military and (b) civilian populations in the event of a nuclear leak from Trident; and if he will make a statement. [9411] Mr. Soames: In the event of an accident involving any defence nuclear material in the UK, the Ministry of Defence nuclear accident response organisation would work in conjunction with the appropriate civil agencies to ensure an effective response to safeguard the public and departmental employees. Where appropriate, information has been issued by the MOD under the provisions of the Public Information for Radiation Emergencies Regulations 1992; public safety schemes exist in respect of all UK berths used by nuclear-powered submarines; and guidance on appropriate protective measures in the event of an accident during the transportation of nuclear weapons has been issued to local authorities and the emergency services. These arrangements were described on pages 39 and 40 of the "Statement on the Defence Estimates 1995".

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 9411; 269 c536W;269 c534W
Session: 1995-96
Subjects: Accidents Civil defence Emergencies Planning Nuclear power Trident