Asked by: Lord Harper (Conservative - Life peer)
Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Independent Medical Expert Group has been tasked to study a potential causal link between chemical exposure and cancer incidence in Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel; and, if so, what is the timetable for its report.
Answered by Lord Coaker - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
The topic of a causal link between chemical exposure and cancer incidence in Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel was referred to the Independent Medical Expert Group (IMEG) in June 2025. The IMEG is actively considering the matter and no date has yet been set for the publication of their report.
Asked by: Lord Harper (Conservative - Life peer)
Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made about whether there is a causal link between chemical exposure and cancer incidence in Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel.
Answered by Lord Coaker - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)
Ministry of Defence (MOD) officials reviewed with interest the March 2025 British Journal of Urology International research letter on a potentially increased risk of bladder cancer in military personnel exposed to explosive ordnance. MOD referred this matter to the Independent Medical Expert Group (IMEG) for their independent medical advice. The possible link between exposure to explosives and an increased risk of bladder cancer among military personnel was discussed by the IMEG at their June 2025 meeting. This matter now forms part of their current work plan. This is a complex issue on which we await their advice.
Asked by: Lord Harper (Conservative - Life peer)
Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Prime Minister's oral contribution on 8 July 2021, Official Report, column 1107, what the evidential basis was for the statement that there was no military path to victory for the Taliban.
Answered by Ben Wallace
The Government made a range of assessments of the military strength and capabilities of the Taliban and the likely speed and success of their efforts to regain control over Afghanistan. However, none suggested that the Taliban assume power through military force alone. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said during the debate, the Taliban will be aware that there must be 'a peaceful and a negotiated settlement for the political crisis' as well.