HC Deb 23 July 1982 vol 28 c340W
Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how HMS "Sheffield" was sunk; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Blaker

HMS "Sheffield" sank under tow in heavy weather because sea water entered the hole in her side caused by the Argentine missile which struck her. To clarify any possible misunderstanding, I can state that there has never been any incident involving a British nuclear weapon leading to its loss or to the dispersal of radioactive contamination.