HC Deb 23 January 1987 vol 108 c756W
Mr. Murphy

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on Government policy relating to the issue of potassium iodate tablets for use against iodine 131 resulting from a nuclear accident.

Mrs. Currie

I have been asked to reply.

Government plans in the event of a United Kingdom accident are outlined in the Health and Safety Executive booklet "Emergency Plans for Nuclear Installations". The plans provide for the issue of potassium iodate tablets for people within a distance of 2 to 3 kilometres downwind of the site of a release of radioactivity. Medical advice to the Government indicates that 200 mg of iodine is appropriate for use pending evacuation of those concerned. A further dose of 100 mg per day is advised if exposure continues because evacuation is thought unnecessary or inappropriate.