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Gemma Doyle MP demands answers about cuts to Scotland’s nuclear response capability
West Dunbartonshire MP and Shadow Defence Minister Gemma Doyle, has today demanded an urgent statement in Parliament on the proposed cutbacks facing Scotland’s Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards (CRCE).
The Centre, based in Glasgow, houses the UK’s major radiochemical laboratories for public health and emergency response, and would provide vital support in the event of a nuclear emergency or incident in Scotland.
CRCE Scotland has already worked on a number of high level cases globally, including offering expert support and advice following the Chernobyl disaster, and the nuclear failings at the Fukishima nuclear power plant in Japan. The centre undertook tasks such as analysing food samples and monitoring the environment to confirm safety.
Doyle pressed the Government to explain why such a vital resource was under threat from cutbacks, which could result in the closure of the facility altogether.
Speaking about the issue Gemma Doyle MP said:
“CRCE Scotland has an absolutely vital role in keeping us safe and in dealing with any nuclear incident which may occur.
“I am extremely concerned to learn that the centre is under threat from Government cutbacks, particularly given its proximity to the Clyde Naval Base, home of the UK’s nuclear submarines.
“The safety and security of Scottish residents should be a priority for this Government, and they must explain urgently what changes are being made.”