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Written question asked by Luke Pollard (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 April 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 May 2023 (named day). It was answered by Andrew Murrison (Conservative) on Wednesday, 3 May 2023 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Sea King Helicopters: Exhaust Emissions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 21 April 2023 to Question 177951 on Sea King Helicopters: Exhaust Emissions, whether the literature on benzene exposure in general and multiple myeloma relates to the benzene contained in Sea King helicopter fumes.

Answer

The Institute for Naval Medicine investigated potential cancer risks from benzene exposure from Sea King exhaust fumes in 2022. The investigation used literature from exposure to benzene in industrial settings, as there was a lack of specific study data relating to exposure to benzene in Sea King exhaust fumes.

Exposure in industrial settings were at a higher concentration and for longer exposure periods than might have been experienced on the Sea King. Therefore, it is more likely that any link between exposure to benzene and multiple myeloma would emerge from those epidemiological studies.

As I have stated previously, I have asked for the opinion of the Independent Medical Advisory Group and once received I will provide the hon. Member with an update.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
182942
Session
2022-23
Related items
Sea King Helicopters: Exhaust Emissions
Friday, 21 April 2023
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Exhaust emissions Benzene Sea King helicopters Multiple myeloma
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk