HC Deb 08 November 1988 vol 140 c137W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the alert at the atomic weapons research establishment, Aldermaston on the afternoon of 28 October; what information he has regarding the cause of this alert; at what point the alert state ended; how many similar alerts there have been in the last five years; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Lewisham, Deptford (Ms. Ruddock) on 3 November at column740. In addition, I can now confirm that the cause of the alarm was an electrical short circuit. The work force was able to re-enter the building at 4.22 pm. There have been five similar alarms in the past five years. All have been false alarms.

Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether local emergency services are involved in contingency plans in case of accident at the atomic weapons research establishment, Aldermaston.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The atomic weapons establishment at Aldermaston maintains close liaison with local authorities, the police, fire and other emergency services. This includes arrangements for the use of local and service hospitals.

Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how long after the alarm system at the atomic weapons research establishment, Aldermaston had indicated an emergency situation on 28 October the local fire and police were informed; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Lewisham, Deptford (Ms. Ruddock) on 3 November at column740.