Written question asked by Lord Beamish (Labour) on Monday, 11 March 2013, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 March 2013. It was answered by Lord Robathan (Conservative) on Thursday, 14 March 2013 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Germany

Question

(3) what restorative or balancing measures his Department has undertaken to avoid any environmental burden arising from the presence by UK military bases in Germany.

[148113]

Mr Kevan Jones:

Answer

The requirement for resolution of any environmental issues relating to the estate vacated by the British Forces in Germany (BFG) is detailed in the Supplementary Agreement to the NATO Status of Forces Agreement and the Ministry of Defence is committed to adhering to this in consultation with the German authorities.

Negotiations are well under way with the German authorities for a final, settlement of all financial claims arising from the release of accommodation. Previous settlements were conducted on either an annual or, more latterly, an ad hoc basis and have hitherto always amounted in a net payment to the UK.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation, in conjunction with the Regulator and German authorities, conducts regular assessments of hazardous substance contamination on the BFG estate, and carries out such work as is necessary to remediate pollution on a day-to-day basis. Land quality assessments and risk assessments are available and shared with the German authorities when stations are closed.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 148113; 560 c352W
Session: 2012-13
Subjects: Contamination Hazardous substances Germany Military bases
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk

Germany

Secondary information

Librarians' tools