HC Deb 21 March 1995 vol 257 c147W
Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how pulsed fast neutron analysis, referred to in his Transport report 1995 facilitates screening of freight vehicles. [14883]

Mr. Watts

Pulsed fast neutron analysis can provide precise information about the composition and location of materials within freight containers. The technique can detect the presence of explosives, for example, by measuring characteristics specific to their composition.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the amount of the contribution from the United Kingdom towards the cost of pulsed fast neutron analysis [14885]

Mr. Watts

The British and French Governments have agreed to contribute to the cost of further development work by Science Applications International Corporation on PFNA technology. The total UK contribution is £4.2 million.