§ 2. Mr. Lubbockasked the Minister of Power if he will issue a general direction to the Central Electricity Generating Board to consider with industry plans for a 200-ton a year heavy water plant based on an interruptible power supply.
§ Mr. GunterNo, Sir. This would not be an appropriate subject for a general direction.
§ Mr. LubbockIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that if we are to sell the steam generating heavy water reactor to overseas customers we must be able to supply the heavy water, of which a world shortage is developing? We may not be able to get it from United States sources. Is the right hon. Gentleman further aware that the load of heavy water manufacturing plant would be convenient for the generating authorities, particularly if it is on an interruptible basis?
§ Mr. GunterThe information we have is that there is no requirement at the present time for the 200-ton a year plant mentioned by the hon. Gentleman. The information that we have is that it is far in excess of any requirement that we can foresee.