MOD investigating aircrew cancers amid claims personnel were exposed to toxic fumes
Military aircraft are being tested by the Ministry of Defence after personnel were said to have been exposed to harmful exhaust fumes.
It comes after military helicopter crews said they were suing the MOD, claiming aircraft exhaust fumes caused their cancers.
Pilots and crew members who served on board helicopters such as the Sea King, Wessex, Puma and Chinook are among those who are taking legal action.
Labour MP Jayne Kirkham had previously asked in the House of Commons: "Will the Minister agree to meet me to discuss the figures for the incidence of blood cancers and sarcomas in veterans and current service personnel who have crewed particular military helicopters?"
Veterans Minister Al Carns responded by saying: "Given the concerns around exposure to exhaust fumes and the importance that we place on safety, the MOD is this month initiating the testing of the exhaust emissions of in-service helicopters to ensure that we are meeting our duty of care for personnel."
The former Royal Marines officer offered to meet the MP "to discuss the issue further".
At least six cases are understood to have already been settled out of court by the MOD, with dozens more currently in the process of suing.
Law firm Hugh James, which is representing some of those affected, said the MOD was "aware of the potential risks associated with inhaling toxic exhaust fumes of the Sea King helicopters" as early as 1999.
Last year, The Times reported at least three former aircrew had died, while others have been told their cancer is terminal.
An MOD spokesperson said: "The health and welfare of our people is a top priority.
"We take any and all health-related risks to personnel seriously and are committed to ensuring we continue to review our policies and practices to keep them as safe as we can."
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