HL Deb 27 September 2000 vol 616 cc147-8WA
Lord Ahmed

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What was the cost of the testing carried out at Porton Down on various samples provided by the Baroness Cox in connection with the possible use of chemical weapons in southern Sudan in 1999. [HL3718]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The cost of testing carried out at CBD Porton Down on seventeen samples provided in connection with the possible use of chemical weapons in southern Sudan in 1999 was approximately £7,000.

Lord Ahmed

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they can provide details of the various scientific tests carried out at Porton Down on the samples provided by the Baroness Cox in connection with the possible use of chemical weapons in southern Sudan in 1999. [HL3719]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The methods used involved gas and liquid chromatography, combined with mass spectrometry for chemical agents and riot control agents, and atomic absorption spectrometry for arsenic. We have arranged for a copy of the report by CBD Porton Down to be placed in the Library of the House.