Review to assess emergency response to Sussex chemical haze

Government announces review that will examine whether emergency responders should be required to take air samples

The government has launched a review of the emergency response to the mysterious chemical haze on Sussex beaches that caused 150 people to seek hospital treatment in August.

It follows criticism by MPs and victims over the failure of investigators to identify the source of the haze, which occurred at Birling Gap and Beachy Head on 27 August. Some of those affected, who reported breathing problems for weeks afterwards, said the incident exposed a lack of preparedness and potential vulnerability to more dangerous gas leaks or chemical attacks.