§ Dr. GibsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many simulated exercises have been carried out in respect of biological and chemical weapon attacks on the UK in each of the last five years. [8622]
§ Mr. HoonThe Ministry of Defence is responsible for providing military aid to the civil authorities support to the Home Office in the event of a biological or chemical weapons terrorist attack upon the UK. On average, seven crisis response exercises are carried out by the MOD each year. In addition, a large number of low level training exercises are conducted each year at unit and sub-unit level.
The Home Office also supports a counter-terrorist exercise programme for police forces, other Government Departments and agencies. My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary will write to my hon. Friend with further details of that programme and a copy of the letter will be placed in the Library of the House.