HL Deb 04 March 2004 vol 658 cc114-5WA
Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Minister of State (Armed Forces) on 15 October 2003 (HC Deb, 244W) that "IPM-7 type detectors are not suitable for use onboard submarines due to space constraints", whether it is the case that alternative procedures are in place on all United Kingdom naval bases to ensure all personnel are monitored for contamination on completion of their work with nuclear submarines before going ashore. [HL1498]

Lord Bach

On board nuclear submarines, trained personnel carry out thorough monitoring of areas where workers may become contaminated and, in addition, workers themselves are monitored before they are permitted to leave the submarine. This monitoring is precautionary as work procedures and protective clothing are designed to minimise the chance of becoming contaminated.

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What monitoring programme is mandatory after the retirement of personnel who have worked on or with nuclear submarines; and what optional health screening is offered to retired personnel. [HL1499]

Lord Bach

There is no mandatory requirement for a monitoring programme for retired personnel who have worked on or with nuclear submarines and no optional health screening is offered to retired personnel.

However, the Ministry of Defence does provide an independent counselling service for radiation workers, former radiation workers and their families who have concerns about their health as a result of their work with radiation. Individuals may request counselling by telephoning the counselling telephone line (02392 768098) and leaving their names and addresses or by writing to the MoD Counselling Registry at DSTL Radiological Protection Services, Crescent Road, Alverstoke, Gosport, Hampshire PO12 2DL. Further details are available on the world-wide web at http:// www.mod.uk/dsef/hp/rwc.htm.