§ Mr. HeathTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of measures to detect biological and chemical threats to British forces. [8360]
§ Dr. MoonieWe take very seriously the need to protect UK armed forces personnel against all threats, including the potential hazards presented by chemical and biological weapons. We therefore constantly monitor the threat, and make adjustments to our response as changing circumstances warrant. Service personnel are protected by a combination of detectors, protective equipment, medical countermeasures and operational procedures, supported by a proactive research and development programme to enhance our defensive capability in this area.