Nerve agent boost

DEFENCE equipment specialist Chemring claimed the nerve agent attack in Salisbury in March has highlighted the need for its weapons-detecting products.

Chemring, based in Romsey, Hampshire, makes products to detect chemical, biological and bomb attacks as well as bullets, explosives and anti-missile protection systems.

It announced an 8pc fall in half-year sales, to £229.3m, while half-year profits rose to £18.1m, up 5pc.

Chief executive Michael Flowers said he expected profits to continue to rise due to increases in the US defence budget.

It comes as the firm is investigated over allegations of bribery, corruption and money-laundering involving subsidiaries.