As a result of pressure from Edward Courtney (one of our most persistent campaigners on nuclear issues) we have achieved a significant breakthrough in making potassium iodine tablets available at a local branch of Boots the Chemist.

You may know that these tablets can protect against thyroid cancer caused by radiation leaks (especially important now in view of potential terrorist attacks on one of our Nuclear Power stations) but they are currently only distributed to those living within a 1 km emergency zone of the nuclear installation (hardly adequate). The UK Government's approach is in stark contrast to that of the Irish Republic which decided, two years ago, to make these tablets freely available to its population - even though that country has no nuclear power stations, it correctly recognised the threat from Britain and France.

Boots have said that UK branches did not currently stock the tablets but could order them 'subject to sufficient demand'. The Thornbury branch of Boots now has 15 packs and our local group is planning to publicise our own purchase of them - to demonstrate that there is a demand.

Our Group would like to ensure that this breakthrough is widely publicised locally, so that others living in the shadow of the West's nuclear power stations can have immediate access - AT LAST! - to these tablets AND to help us overcome the considerable reluctance of Boots to stock them. If you want further information, Edward's number is 01454 261022.

Tablets cost just over £11 for 10.

update:

• Boots state that potassium iodate tablets (packs of 10) are now available with no minimum order.
  • Also, they are sent Royal Mail, so there is no special charge for courier delivery.
  • Staff at Thornbury have been explicitly told.
  • Click thumbnail for the original letter from Boots.

Denise

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