§ Mr. WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what area outside his Department's property at the710W royal naval armament depot, Beith explosive hazard areas extend; what is the total civil population resident within these areas; and what plans exist for evacuation of the resident population in the event of an accident at the depot.
§ Mr. FreemanThe explosive hazard areas surrounding the royal naval armaments depot, Beith are detailed on the safeguarding map held by the local planning authority, Cunninghame district council. I am sending a copy of this map to the hon. Member.
It is estimated that approximately 130 people are resident in these areas. Detailed standing orders exist to cover potential fire and explosion situations and frequent exercises are held to test these procedures. In addition copies of the RNAD emergency plans are held by the local fire and police authorities. These arrangements would enable immediate action to be taken to protect the public in the unlikely event of a serious fire or accidental explosion at RNAD Beith.