Operation Antler (Porton Down investigation)
In July 1999 the UK Wiltshire Constabulary opened an investigation into allegations of malfeasance at Porton Down Chemical and Biological research Establishment. As a consequence of these preliminary investigations the scope of the inquiry was broadened into a major inquiry named Operation Antler.The inquiries established that a number of the participants in the Service Volunteer Programme claimed to have been tricked into taking part in experiments. Some also claimed to have suffered long-term illness or injury as a result of the experiments.
The investigation covers the period from 1939 to 1989.
Due to the large numbers involved, 25 cases were selected for development with a view to determination whether prosecution was possible. However the Crown Prosecution Service concluded eventually that there would be no prosecutions of scientists involved in the tests.