HC Deb 17 December 1986 vol 107 c557W
Mr. Frank Cook

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what training policemen receive in the use of personal dosimeters, radiac survey meters, decontamination meters, breathing equipment and protective clothing;

(2) how many persons are employed by the police to train policemen in dealing with accidents involving radioactivity; and if he will list the areas of expertise covered;

(3) what facilities are available for the training of policemen in dealing with accidents involving radioactivity;

(4) how many days are allocated in the training of a police sergeant to dealing with accidents involving radioactive contamination; and what is the current amount of money allocated to the training of a police sergeant in dealing with such accidents;

(5) how many days are allocated in the training of a police constable to dealing with accidents involving radioactive contamination; and what is the current amount of money allocated for the training of a police constable in dealing with such accidents.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

Training of this type is not organised centrally and is a matter for individual police forces. The advice and assistance available to the police on accidents involving radioactivity is described in the emergency planning guidance to local authorities. A copy is in the Library.

Mr. Frank Cook

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether organisations representing the police have been asked to make any submissions to the review of arrangements for nuclear accidents being undertaken by Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

No, but there will be appropriate consultation on matters relevant to the police raised in the review.