§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many fatal accidents have occurred on board Vanguard-class submarines since they entered into service; and what health and safety procedures have been introduced following such accidents. [145359]
§ Mr. SpellarSince the introduction of the Vanguard class, there has been only one instance of an onboard fatality. This was on 6 October 2000. As is usual in these circumstances, rigorous formal inquiries were instigated. These included a Board of Inquiry. The report from the Board of Inquiry is currently being considered by Senior Officers. Following the accident, and in advance of final recommendations, some additional precautionary measures have been introduced.