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Written question asked by Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth (Conservative) on Thursday, 3 September 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 September 2026. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Thursday, 17 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Veterans: Radiation Exposure

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government how many British military personnel who took part in nuclear weapons testing are currently alive; and what plans they have, if any, to compensate them.

Answer

The Government is deeply grateful to all those who participated in the UK's nuclear testing programme and recognises their service and the significant contribution they made to the nation's security.

The Ministry of Defence does not hold information on how many British military personnel who participated in the UK's nuclear weapons testing programme are currently alive. It is estimated that around 22,000 Service personnel and civilians participated in the UK's nuclear testing programme between 1952 and 1967.

There is no dedicated compensation scheme for Nuclear Test Veterans and their families. However, veterans who believe they have suffered ill health as a result of their service may apply for no-fault compensation under the War Pension Scheme, provided they served before 6 April 2005.

War Pensions may be awarded for illness or injury caused by service in the Armed Forces, with the benefit of reasonable doubt given to the claimant. Claims are assessed on the basis of available service and medical evidence, medically certified, and carry a full right of appeal to an independent tribunal.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3056
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Compensation Nuclear weapons Radiation exposure Testing Veterans
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk