Foyle MP Mark Durkan setting fire to a methane mamba of soap bubbles at Westminster.
Foyle MP Mark Durkan has been involved in a number of “explosions” in the British House of Commons.
The SDLP representative looked on as a university professor became the first scientist ever to be allowed to carry out explosive experiments in the British parliament buildings,
The experiments took place at an event held by the Royal Society of Chemistry at which Mr Durkan met with representatives from the society to talk about the importance of scientific research to the economy – including Derry and throughout the North.
He also took part in some “loud and colourful” experiments during which he witnessed the “whizzes and bangs” of chemistry first-hand as Professor Hal Sosabowski, from the University of Brighton, showed off the science behind glow sticks, a liquid nitrogen shower and a flaming methane mamba of soap bubbles.
Foyle MP Mark Durkan taking a liquid nitrogen shower at Westminster.
However, Mr Durkan pointed out behind behind the colourful chemicals and “exciting explosions,” the event offered him the opportunity to discuss the need for a long-term strategy for science funding to drive economic growth and create jobs – not least in Derry and throughout the North.
Mr Durkan added: “I may have been a poor pupil when it came to chemistry at school but it was really fascinating to see Dr Sosabowski’s demonstrations.
“Indeed, it’s not often you get to see explosions in Parliament!
“It was also great to talk to the Royal Society of Chemistry about how scientific research can help to grow our local economy.”
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