§ Mr. Warbeyasked the Secretary of State for War on what dates, and in what areas, shells or canisters containing nerve gas or other toxic chemical products have been dumped in the seas surrounding the British Isles; what quantities are involved; and whether he is satisfied that there is no present or future danger to health through leakage.
§ Mr. SoamesIn 1955 about 17,000 tons of captured German gas bombs were dumped in the Atlantic Ocean; and in 1956 and 1957 some 8,000 tons of shells and bombs containing phosgene and mustard gas were disposed of in the same way. The areas were selected in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. The depth of water was never less than 1,000 fathoms and I am advised that no danger to anyone can arise.