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Written question asked by John Healey (Labour) on Monday, 24 May 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 26 May 2021. It was answered by Amanda Solloway (Conservative) on Wednesday, 2 June 2021 on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Space Debris: Scandinavia

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what discussions his Department has had with the Scandinavian governments on the potential for upper-stage rocket debris from UK launches to land on their sovereign territory.

Answer

There is no expectation that upper stage debris from any UK launch will affect the sovereign territory of any Scandinavian country.

The Government has held discussions with all countries to the north of the British Isles which may hold an interest in, or whose territory may be affected by, space launch activities undertaken from the UK.

Where there is a possibility of UK-based launch companies seeking to deposit launch vehicle debris (whether this is from the vehicle's upper stage or otherwise) in another state's territorial waters or Exclusive Economic Zone, the government intends to obtain consent from the affected countries.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
6185
Session
2021-22
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Spaceflight Scandinavia Space debris
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk