§ Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of(a) land contamination and (b) risk from unexploded or degraded ordnance (i) on land, (ii) on beaches and (iii) offshore at the DERA Eskmeals Range. [132161]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 25 July 2000]: This is a matter for the Chief Executive of the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency. I have asked the Chief Executive to write to the hon. Member.
Letter from John Chisholm to Mr. Robert Key, dated 28 July 2000:
I am replying to your parliamentary question about land contamination assessments and risk assessments from unexploded or degraded ordnance at the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) range at Eskmeals.The most recent land quality assessment was carried out in 1999 and considered Depleted Uranium (DU) contamination at the VJ Battery and surrounding area, unexploded ordnance, explosive residues and trace metals and landfill sites containing asbestos, inert shells and other trials residues.The risk from unexploded ordnance or degraded ordnance is continually monitored. Procedures are in place to ensure the safety of staff employed at the range. The range, including the foreshore, is fenced and patrolled to deter members of the public from straying into the area. On the beach there are warning signs at public access points. Local fishermen have also been briefed on what action to take should they catch such items.I hope the above is helpful.