Written question asked by Robin Cook (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 19 January 1996. It was answered by Lord Arbuthnot of Edrom (Conservative) on Friday, 19 January 1996 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: What is (a) the maximum safe storage time of 155mm artillery shells used by his Department and (b) the recommended safe storage time; if he will list (a) and (b) for (i) 1980, (ii) 1985 and (iii) 1990; and what factors underly differences between (a) and (b) for each year.

Answer: Mr. Cook: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is (a) the maximum safe storage time of 155mm artillery shells used by his Department and (b) the recommended safe storage time; if he will list (a) and (b) for (i) 1980, (ii) 1985 and (iii) 1990; and what factors underly differences between (a) and (b) for each year. [10653] Mr. Arbuthnot: Since 1980, all 155mm ammunition procured by the MOD is designed to provide a service life of 10 years. No distinction is made between maximum and recommended safe storage. For each nature, the service life may be extended subject to appropriate tests and trials being concluded satisfactorily.

Secondary information