To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received on commissioning research into the potential health effects on children and grandchildren of nuclear test veterans of their forebears' exposure to radiation during tests; and if he will make a statement. (243820)

Following an offer I made during the adjournment debate on 22 October 2008, Official Report, column 417, I met with the hon. Member for Billericay (Mr. Baron) and my hon. Friend the Member for Norwich, North (Dr. Gibson) and members of the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association on 29 October to discuss the possibility of a new MOD-funded study on health experiences particularly in relation to offspring. Officials have been discussing the scientific and ethical issues relevant to such a study with the BNTVA and scientific advisers and I hope to be able to make an announcement in the new year.