§ 4. Mr. Gordon Campbellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what are the arrangements for control of torpedoes in the Firth of Clyde.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Navy (Dr. David Owen)A comprehensive system of warnings and safety signals is used for the torpedo range in Upper Loch Long, and there are safety regulations in all other areas. Following the recent incident, torpedo firing in Lower Loch Long is at present suspended and I am having a detailed investigation made.
§ Mr. CampbellCan the Minister explain how a torpedo got loose in the Clyde three weeks ago? It caused considerable consternation amongst shipping there before it reached the end of its excursion.
§ Dr. OwenThe torpedo to which the hon. Gentleman refers over-ran because the motor failed to cut out as programmed. I can understand the consternation it caused.