HC Deb 26 February 1988 vol 128 cc373-5W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many scintillators were available to and used by his Department for the live monitoring of sheep in the restricted areas of Northern Ireland in each month from May 1986 to May 1987.

Mr. Viggers

[holding answer 22 February 1988]: The use of scintillators for the live monitoring of sheep commenced with the use of one scintillator in June 1986. This number was increased by three in October 1986 and to five in February 1987.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of Slate for Northern Ireland when live monitoring of sheep on a general basis was introduced in the restricted areas of Northern Ireland following the Chernobyl accident.

Mr. Viggers

[holding answer 22 February 1988]: Live monitoring of sheep in Northern Ireland commenced in June 1986 across the Province including those areas which later became subject to restrictions.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when restrictions were first placed on the movement of sheep in Northern Ireland following the Chernobyl nuclear accident; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Viggers

[holding answer 22 February 1988]: 15 September 1987; until that date, using the United Kingdom action level of 1,000 bq/kg, monitoring since the Chernobyl accident showed no need to introduce restrictions.