Written question asked by Charles Kennedy (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 3 March 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 March 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Thursday, 11 March 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what arrangements are in place for providing compensation to the (a) residents and (b) businesses of Skye and Wester Ross in the event of a nuclear incident involving a nuclear submarine using the Z Berths at Aultbea and Broadford; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Charles Kennedy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements are in place for providing compensation to the (a) residents and (b) businesses of Skye and Wester Ross in the event of a nuclear incident involving a nuclear submarine using the Z Berths at Aultbea and Broadford; and if he will make a statement. [159625] Mr. Ingram: The Government underwrite the nuclear risks associated with the consequences of the operation of its nuclear submarines. The indemnification of these risks is not limited either financially or geographically and depending on the location and type of incident, would cover the local residents and businesses on the Isle of Skye and at Wester Ross.

Secondary information