HL Deb 22 May 2000 vol 613 cc69-70WA
Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there was any evidence in recent trials that shells now manufactured by Nitrochemie are damaging the gun barrels of the Challenger 2 tank; and, if so, what. [HL2374]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The Ministry of Defence is not aware of any damage being caused to Challenger 2 gun barrels during trials of charges manufactured by the RO Defence supplier, Nitrochemie.

Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many people were treated for skin exposure to nitro-glycerine leaking from shells manufactured by Nitrochemie in Germany, which is planned to replace Bishopton in Scotland as the manufacturer of these shells. [HL2373]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The Ministry of Defence has no evidence or information on in alleged leakage of nitro-glycerine from shells.

Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What were the results of recent tests of the propellant for Charm 3 training rounds which are now manufactured by Nitrochemie in Germany in place of Bishopton in Scotland. [HL2372]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The Ministry of Defence has no contracts with Nitrochemie fix Charm 3 training rounds. The contractor for these rounds is RO Defence, who we understand are assessing options for the supply of propellant and combustible charge cases following their intended closure of RO Bishopton. The conduct and outcome of this work is a matter for RO Defence.