Britain accused of covering up sinking

LONDON, Feb. 11 (UPI) -- A new book accuses Britain's Ministry of Defense of covering up the sinking of a French ship more than three years ago that left five men dead.

The Sunday Telegraph said the book, "State Secrets over a Wrecking," alleges that the British government lied about the incident and that the Royal Navy submarine, HMS Turbulent, actually sunk the French trawler back on Jan. 15, 2004.

Written by French authors Sebastien Turay and Laurent Richard, the book offers alleged proof that contradicts the Ministry of Defense's claim that the submarine was docked at the time of the incident.

The pair alleges the submarine accidentally dragged the Bugaled Breizh down with it while engaging in war games near the British county of Cornwall.

The book also cites the British and French navies for their alleged role in the coverup as well.

Since the book was published, Member of Parliament Andrew George has asked that Adam Ingram, Britain's armed forces minister, respond to the allegations.

The newspaper said that while Ingram has not responded yet, French authorities continue to investigate the matter and are considering manslaughter charges against an unidentified party.