HC Deb 23 January 1996 vol 270 cc139-40W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if his Department is involved in the search for ordnance within the waters of the former Portland naval base; and if he will make a statement. [11323]

Mr. Soames

In anticipation of the closure of the naval base on 31 March 1996. Portland harbour is being searched for the purpose of safely removing any ordnance which may exist. This is in accordance with MOD policy to clear surplus sites of ordnance before disposal. The Royal Navy is clearing the harbour floor and an area outside the harbour in areas deeper than 10 m. A MOD-approved specialist contract diving company is clearing areas inside the harbour of less than 10 m depth up to the shoreline. Only a small quantity of live but stable ordnance has been found and is being safely disposed of by Navy ordnance disposal specialists.