MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
168/97 17 November 1997
NUCLEAR EXERCISE PUTS SAFETY FIRST, SAYS ARMED FORCES MINISTER
A full test of the Ministry of Defence's comprehensive emergency
plans and responses in case of a nuclear accident will be carried out
in Scotland, Armed Forces Minister Dr John Reid announced today.
The exercise, SHORT SERMON 97, is designed to demonstrate the
reaction of the MoD in the unlikely event of a reactor accident in a
nuclear submarine berthed at the Clyde Naval Base.
During the exercise, in which Dr Reid is participating, emergency
services will be mobilised and local authorities will play a full
part. There will be a full evacuation of the Naval Base in accordance
with the response plan.
Dr Reid said:
"There has never been an accident to a Royal Navy nuclear powered
submarine which has caused any release of fisson products from its
reactor. However, the Ministry of Defence make every conceivable
effort to maintain the highest possible standards of nuclear safety.
This exercise will provide an opportunity to fully test our emergency
plans and reponses.
"The MoD maintains a highly trained Nuclear Accident Response Team in
order to respond swiftly and effectively to a nuclear accident
anywhere in the UK."
This exercise is part of a programme of nuclear accident response
exercises which are held each year to test the effectiveness of that
organisation.
Exercise Short Sermon 97 will be held from Tuesday 18 until Thursday
20 November.
ENDS
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