Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 21 January 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 February 2003. It was answered by Michael Meacher (Labour) on Monday, 24 February 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment has been conducted (a) by and (b) for her Department on the effectiveness of RIMNET3; and if she will place copies of such research in the Library. - Inc ref to 20 January 2003, 398 c105W and fact that summaries of radiation monitoring data held on the RIMNET system are regularly sent to the Library.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment has been conducted (a) by and (b) for her Department on the effectiveness of RIMNET 3; and if she will place copies of such research in the Library. [93273] Mr. Meacher: The Radioactive Incident Monitoring Network (RIMNET) Phase 3 system is currently under development, as explained in my previous answer on 20 January 2003, Official Report, column 105W. The specification for RIMNET 3 was based upon the proven functionality of the RIMNET Phase 2 system, which continues to meet maintenance contract targets in excess of 99 per cent. reliability. This is through in depth design features which provide the necessary levels of resilience, including backup facilities at a remote location. Remote in this sense, means far removed from the main facility, yet accessible to authorised users via modern electronic communications. Assessment of the effectiveness of the RIMNET 3 system will be undertaken during its development and the acceptance trials. RIMNET 3 is currently scheduled to come into full operation and take over from RIMNET 2 in early 2004. Summaries of radiation monitoring data held on the RIMNET system are regularly sent to the House Library and are also published in departmental environmental statistical summaries.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 93273; 400 c96W;400 c91W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Accidents Monitoring Radioactivity Standards Radioactive Incident Monitoring Network
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk