Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how CS spray is used in the training of armed forces personnel; and whether there have been any reports of injuries associated with the use of such spray in such training in each year since 2010.

Ortho Chloro Bezylid Enemalonitrile (CS) is used by the Ministry of Defence in two forms:

Pellet Irritant Smoke Respirator L1A1 (CS Pellets) which is a low concentration aerosolised particulate (similar to talcum powder drifting in the air). This is used within the confined environment of confirmation training facility as part of the testing process of the annual chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) revision requirement. If the CBRN drills are carried out correctly then exposure to the effects of CS is negligible. Royal Marine, Army and RAF recruits (not Royal Navy) are deliberately exposed to CS once in their career, to allow them to understand the effects of CS and gain confidence in the equipment that individuals may use when deployed.

Canister Irritant Pressurised Hand Held L1A5 is a pressurised can containing a liquid CS suspension, known colloquially as CI. It is designed to be released in the vicinity of unprotected, trained troops who are in possession of the correct Personal Protective Equipment (respirator). The CS simulates exposure to a Chemical Warfare Agent, initiating the CBRN Immediate Action drills (donning of the respirator etc.). The CS canister must not be used in a confined area (buildings etc.) or within 1m of unprotected troops. The effects of CS can expect to be experienced by those downwind of the release point, with reducing acuteness, for a significant distance (potentially several hundred metres). CI is used as a useful training aid within a CBRN exercise for developing confidence when operating and conducting military tasks.

I will write to the hon. Member with further details on her specific point on reports of injuries when the information has been collated.