§ Lord Boyd-Carpenterasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether there has been any progress in implementing the National Radiation Monitoring Network (RIMNET).
The Minister of State, Department of the Environment (The Earl of Caithness)The radiation monitors for the first phase of the RIMNET system have been in operation since June of last year. Following the commissioning trials of the associated computer and telecommunications equipment, the system became fully operational in February.
The United Kingdom now has a nationwide facility for detecting and monitoring overseas nuclear incidents. Modern information technology (CEEFAX, PRESTEL and Telecom Gold electronic mail) will be used to distribute widely information and advice to the public and relevant bodies.
Earlier today I visited the Technical Co-ordination Centre of the RIMNET system, and announced the publication of a new booklet explaining how the Phase 1 RIMNET system will operate in the event of a future overseas nuclear incident, The National Response Plan and Radioactive Incident Monitoring Network (RIMNET), Phase 1. Copies of the booklet have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.