SNP calls for nuclear sub leak investigation

The Scottish National Party has called for an investigation into the radioactive coolant that is said to have leaked into the Firth of Clyde from nuclear submarines three times in the past five years.

The SNP leader at Westminster, Angus Robertson, stated that this is not one incident that can be dismissed, but is rather a compilation of many shocking failures and that if it had the power to close the base, it would.

According to a Ministry of Defence report that Channel 4 News received, the leaks may have been the result of poor maintenance of the submarines and insufficient training and qualified staffing at the Faslane base located west of Glasgow.

The MOD countered the claims by stating they informed the proper regulatory authorities in a timely manner and that there was not a perceived environmental or safety threat to any individuals involved.

According to the MOD there is an improvement plan in the works to make sure the HM Navel Base Clyde is modern and operating correctly.

Liberal opponents quickly used the report by the SNP to attack the MOD’s plans to replace the Trident nuclear missile system which will cost the UK government approximately £100b over its lifetime.

The Scottish EPA does not have control over regulating radioactive releases that occur on MOD premises, but emphasised that it needs to be continually watched to ensure it confirms to the same high standards any other nuclear base would have to adhere to.