§ Mrs EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what emergency berths exist in Scotland for Trident in the event of a nuclear reactor or weapon incident; and where they are situated. [9410]
§ Mr. SoamesNo berths are designated specifically for emergency use. The normal operating berths for Trident submarines are at the Clyde submarine base, Faslane and at the royal naval armaments depot, Coulport.
§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements exist for the safety of(a) military and (b) civilian populations in the event of a nuclear leak from Trident; and if he will make a statement. [9411]
§ Mr. SoamesIn the event of an accident involving any defence nuclear material in the UK, the Ministry of Defence nuclear accident response organisation would work in conjunction with the appropriate civil agencies to ensure an effective response to safeguard the public and departmental employees. Where appropriate, information has been issued by the MOD under the provisions of the Public Information for Radiation Emergencies Regulations 1992; public safety schemes exist in respect of all UK berths used by nuclear-powered submarines; and guidance on appropriate protective measures in the event of an accident during the transportation of nuclear weapons has been issued to local authorities and the emergency services. These arrangements were described on pages 39 and 40 of the "Statement on the Defence Estimates 1995".