Matthew has praised the work of the Royal Navy’s Diving & Threat Exploitation Group (DTXG) after visiting their base in Portsmouth.

As Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Explosive Threats, Matthew travelled to Horsea Island to see the work of the Royal Navy Clearance Divers.

Consisting of a team of around 60 highly trained divers and Explosive Ordnance Disposal experts, the DTXG is responsible for removing all unexploded ordnance found in tidal waters and on vessels, as well as assisting public services at inshore sites and the maintenance of the submarine fleet. The DTXG were previously known as the Fleet Diving Squadron and were recently rebranded to form the new team able to deal with the latest threats.

Accompanying their Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Nathan Isaacs, and joined by Brigadier Lord Lancaster, Matthew toured the Headquarters of the Squadron, viewed a demonstration of their equipment and had the chance to chat to many of the staff. A keen diver himself, Matthew had the opportunity to enter the 1,000m training lake and see the challenges that divers face when diffusing explosive threats such as limpet mines.

Following on from his visit, Matthew said: “The work of groups such as the Royal Navy divers is often overlooked, and it was a pleasure to see and hear first-hand the immense amount of work they undertake.

“I am aware of the challenges facing the future of this part of the Navy, and I will be focussed on ensuring that their vital work can continue.”