Anti-radiation pill supply increased

Anti-radiation pill supplies have been increased

Increased supplies of anti-radiation pills have been distributed throughout the UK to combat the effects of a possible terrorist attack.

The UK has always held stocks of the potassium iodate tablets, particularly in areas surrounding nuclear power stations.

But following the 11 September terrorist attacks on New York, supplies of the pills have been increased throughout the country.

The potassium iodate tablets protect the thyroid gland from the effects of radioactive iodine.

'No protection'

A spokesperson for the Department of Health said: "These additional stockpiles are distributed around the country so that the public could be protected against radioactive iodine poisoning in the event of a wider accident.

"The tablets would protect against the release of radioactive iodine, but there are many other forms of radioactive material against which there simply is no protection of this kind."

He added that the number or location of the tablets could not be discussed, as that would compromise national security.

Immediately after the 11 September attacks security was stepped up in the UK and hospitals upgraded their contingency plans for dealing with victims of a major incident.

Vaccines for anthrax and small pox were stockpiled and police stepped up patrols and vehicle searches.

Security around nuclear installations was also stepped up.