USSR nuclear and chemical clean-up continues
The legacy of the USSR’s nuclear and chemical weapons programmes is still with Europe and the world.
That is today’s assessment by the Government as it publishes its second report on the efforts the UK is making to help prevent the spread of weapons materials and technologies from the former Soviet Union.
The break up of the Soviet Union left rusting nuclear submarines and silos as well as a huge stockpile of chemical weapons. Intelligence agencies from around the globe are concerned about the possibility of some of this material finding its way into the hands of terrorists, with environmentalists concerned about the possibility of a disaster.
Key projects that the UK government is contributing to include an £11 million operation to dismantle nuclear submarines in the Russian Northern Fleet, continuing help to Chernobyl and £4 million per annum for the UK-Russia Closed Nuclear Cities Partnership. This is designed to provide sustainable, non-weapons employment for former nuclear weapons scientists and technicians and so prevent them being tempted by offers from undesirable governments or organisations.
Speaking today, Trade and Industry Minister Nigel Griffiths said: “Reducing the environmental, safety and security risks posed by the nuclear legacy of the former Soviet Union is a very high priority for the UK and its G8 partners. Much has been achieved so far and we will continue to work to play a full part in addressing these crucial issues.”
Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram added: “Russia has 40,000 tonnes of chemical weapons, the worlds the largest stockpile. A key area of my Department’s work in Russia is to assist in international programmes to help destroy this lethal legacy. This year we have completed our second project at the destruction facility at Shchuch’ye in the Urals region, on budget, using funds from the UK, Norway, the EU and the Czech Republic. We are now embarking on further major projects at Shchuch’ye, with substantial funding contributions from Canada and other donors.”
