§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what tests he has carried out on the dangers to humans resulting from the bombing of installations containing(a) Bacillus Anthracis (Cohn), (b) Bacillus Subtilis (Ehrenburg), (c) Clostridium botulinum Type A, (d) Clostridium Tetan, (e) Brucella abartus Biotype 3 and (f) Escherichia coli; and if he will place his evaluation in the Library. [26285]
§ Mr. Spellar[holding answer 29 January 1998]: This is a matter for the Chief Executive of the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA). I have asked the Chief Executive to write to my hon. Friend.
601WLetter from John Chisholm to Mr. Tam Dalyell, dated 3 February 1998.
As Chief Executive of the Defence Evaluation and Research agency (DERA) I have been asked to reply to your question about what tests have been carried out to look at the dangers resulting from bombing installations containing harmful bacteria.No specific field trials have been carried out to look at this subject. DERA's Chemical and Biological Defence Sector (CBD) at Porton Down carries out theoretical risk assessments on a range of micro-organisms that might be used as a biological weapon by an aggressor. It would, therefore, be possible to assess very quickly the specific risk associated with the release of bacteria from a bombed installation from the data already available.During the Gulf War, CBD conducted theoretical modelling, based on the worst case scenario, on the risk to military operations which might result from the destruction of enemy biological production and storage facilities. Such modelling is intended to ensure that the operational effectiveness of the UK Armed Forces is not compromised.I hope this information is helpful.