City reviews measures in case of nuclear war

BIRMINGHAM City Council says its civil defence measures are under “constant review” after a councillor asked if they were prepared for a potential Russian nuclear strike.

At a full council meeting John O’Shea (Lib Dem) asked: “There appears to be a brutal, dangerous, and unstable individual in charge of Russia, who has been making threats of nuclear war.

“I wonder if the leader can tell us what is done to review our city’s civil defence readiness in the event of the unthinkable happening.”

Council leader Ian Ward said: “I do agree that there is an unstable individual in charge of the state of Russia at the moment.

“However, I do not think that the world is going to be facing a nuclear war. Of course the city council keeps under constant review its emergency provisions and its emergency measures, should there be a civil problem in this city, and that will continue to be the case.

“Like everybody else in this room, whilst I condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and condemn President Putin for the actions he has taken in Ukraine, I hope and pray we are not going to see things escalate to a nuclear war.”

Most civil defence operations are undertaken by a fire and rescue authority.

The comments were made ahead of thousands of Ukrainians expected to arrive in the

UK, following criticisms of the slow progress of government schemes.

Councillor Ward said Birmingham was ready to be part of the huge humanitarian response.

He said: “This is a proud global city built upon the values of compassion, justice, freedom and democracy. The people of this city want to contribute to the humanitarian effort, just as they have helped people in Afghanistan, Syria, and other places affected by war and conflict.

“I would urge anyone who wants to help to support the disaster emergency committee appeal, a coordinated effort from the Red Cross Christian Aid, Oxfam, and Save the Children.

“Birmingham is of course ready to play its part in the humanitarian efforts. So we have quickly stood up an office and a working group to lead on the city council response, looking at every element of support that might be needed.

“We’re liaising with partner agencies, including the government, the NHS and community organisations to ensure that Birmingham is ready to welcome any refugees.

“This is a very fast moving situation.”