Written question asked by Margaret Ewing (Scottish National Party) on Tuesday, 29 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 March 2000. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 March 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps are taken to protect personnel in training and operational areas exposed to discharged depleted uranium ammunition. - (Holding answer 7 March 2000).

Answer: Mrs. Ewing: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps are taken to protect personnel in training and operational areas exposed to discharged depleted uranium ammunition. [112839] Mr. Spellar: [holding answer 7 March 2000]: We do not use depleted uranium during routine training. It is used during trials and has been used in operations. Detailed safety instructions are distributed to all Arms and Services Training Establishments and to all units serving in operational theatres where there may be a risk of exposure to discharged depleted uranium ammunition. MOD trial sites are subject to a comprehensive programme of monitoring, the results of which are published annually.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 346 c103W; 112839
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Ammunition Armed forces Radiation exposure Safety measures Depleted uranium