§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence in what circumstances radioactive material is discharged from nuclear submarines into the sea; and if he will make a statement. [10692]
§ Dr. Reid[holding answer 25 July 1997]: Under normal operating conditions, there are no radioactive discharges from nuclear submarines. However, with the older classes of submarine there are certain occasions when there may be very small controlled discharges of low-level radioactive water. These instances include chemical dosing to prevent corrosion and following a shutdown of the reactor. These discharges must comply with authorised limits and are carefully monitored.
When alongside, discharges of radioactive material are allowed only into approved and controlled shore-based discharge facilities. The discharge of radioactive material into the sea is not permitted when alongside.
Due to advances in reactor development and technology, radioactive water is not discharged from Vanguard class submarines.