MPs call for testing of former industrial sites and nearby residents

MPs have called for coordinated testing of former industrial sites and people living nearby, following evidence from Michael Sheen and investigative journalists about contamination in Wales and England.

Welsh Affairs Committee chair Ruth Jones wrote to Wales Secretary Stephen Kinnock on 15 September, urging cooperation between the UK and Welsh governments. The letter is a request for action, rather than confirmation that a testing programme has been agreed.

The committee heard evidence on 10 September. Its request covers nearby residents as well as the sites themselves, seeking to establish the extent of the problem.

MPs say they proposed a four-nation approach on 21 July, but the government’s 7 September reply made no commitment to explore joint work with Welsh ministers and the UK Health Security Agency.

The letter acknowledges that some policy areas are devolved while pressing for collaboration. The committee also criticises the coordination and funding of existing work.

MPs plan to seek an update in October. If more thorough testing is considered unviable, they want a full explanation by 5 October. That is a deadline for an explanation, not for completing tests.