§ Mr. Frank Cookasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if samples of the sludge from Ravenglass deposited in a Westminster street on 26 February are to be assayed; how the mass of slurry will be handled while the assessment is under way; if a specific search will be made for alpha emission; and how, and where, the mass will be disposed of.
§ Mr. WaldegraveAn initial check by geiger counter did not detect significant levels of radioactivity in the mud. However samples are now being thoroughly analysed and assayed. All forms of radioactivity will be covered. Meanwhile the mud is being temporarily stored in an enclosed container. Once the results of the analysis are available, appropriate arrangements will be made for disposal. It is not expected that this will pose any technical problem.