Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Community

11 December 2024 · 5 other contributors · 11,608 words

Opened by Helen Maguire Lib Dem Epsom and Ewell

Responding minister: Alistair Carns

UkraineDefenceVeterans

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Helen Maguire raised concerns about explosive ordnance disposal community in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The UK's explosive ordnance disposal capacity is strained due to global conflicts, especially in Ukraine.
  • The number of casualties from explosive weapons has increased by 70% over the past three years.
  • The UK Government is urged to support research into de-mining technology and provide long-term assistance to victims.

Key requests to Government

The UK Government should consider its post-conflict services more carefully and ensure that research into de-mining technology receives support. There needs to be better consideration in Whitehall for the long-term assistance required by victims of explosive weapons both globally and domestically.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Helen Maguire Lib Dem Epsom and Ewell

The UK's explosive ordnance disposal capacity is stretched due to global conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. The number of people killed or injured by explosive weapons has increased by 70% in the past three years, with an estimated 150,000 sq km of land contaminated and needing clearance. There are currently only around 2,000 de-miners in Ukraine for a task requiring at least 10,000 working over ten years to clear the affected areas. Additionally, there is a lack of coordination among equipment donor countries, import/export licensing issues, and ongoing challenges with victim assistance.

Other contributors (5)
  • Calvin Bailey Lab Leyton and Wanstead

    Acknowledged the importance of explosive ordnance disposal for saving lives, enabling economic recovery, and rebuilding societies. Highlighted that over 15 people die daily due to unexploded bombs, with civilians making up 84% of casualties and children accounting for a third. Cited studies showing that every £1 spent on mine clearance yields fourfold returns in economic benefits. Emphasised the need for sustained commitment from the Government to support veterans and integrate explosive ordnance disposal into national armaments strategy. Highlights the contributions of the Royal Navy in mine clearance operations, particularly in the Gulf region alongside US and French naval forces.

  • Cameron Thomas Lib Dem Tewkesbury

    Commends the debate on explosive ordnance disposal and shares a personal story about Staff Sergeant Olaf Schmid, who died while disarming improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan. Raises concerns over anti-personnel mines, citing an increase in casualties from landmines and explosive remnants of war by 22% since 2022. Calls for support programmes to assist victims and their families.

  • Gregory Campbell DUP East Londonderry

    Mr. Gregory Campbell emphasised the ongoing threat of explosive ordnance in Northern Ireland, noting that despite the ceasefire, there are still between 100 to 200 incidents annually requiring EOD personnel intervention. The hon. Member supports the Army Benevolent Fund's work to help veterans and has tabled an early-day motion to highlight this.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Described a recent incident in Newtownards, Northern Ireland where an unexploded World War II bomb was discovered during construction work. Emphasised the significant impact on residents and praised the quick response by EOD experts and local services. Also highlighted the ongoing issue of explosive ordnance in Ukraine, mentioning that 15 people are killed or injured daily with 84% being civilians and more than a third children under 10.

  • Mark Francois Con Rayleigh and Wickford

    Mr. Mark Francois paid tribute to British armed forces personnel for their work in addressing unexploded ordnance threats, both during the troubles and subsequently, highlighting his personal visit to an EOD unit when he was the Armed Forces Minister. Mr Francois declared his family interest in bomb disposal due to his father's service during WWII. He praised previous speakers for their contributions and provided historical context on EOD operations from WWI through modern conflicts, highlighting the dangerous nature of the work. He also raised concerns about the Government's intention to abolish the Northern Ireland Troubles Act 2023. Francois inquired about future funding for overseas mine disposal, questioned the vulnerability of MOD budget funds due to the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), and requested an update on the SDR's publication timeline.

Government Response

Alistair Carns

Acknowledged the bravery of EOD operators, noting their critical role in dealing with over 2,300 incidents annually. Emphasised the economic legacy of EOD capabilities through scientific and industrial advancements. Highlighted the need for evolving EOD capabilities to meet modern warfare challenges, including drone-delivered explosives and complex IEDs. Promised continued support for veterans' legal and welfare assistance. Stressed the importance of international collaboration in demining efforts and championing charities that provide support.

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