HC Deb 27 June 1956 vol 555 cc486-7
50. Mr. Neave

asked the Lord Privy Seal the policy of Her Majesty's Government on the export of nuclear reactors and components.

Mr. R. A. Butler

Her Majesty's Government are fully alive to the importance of the export of nuclear reactors and components by British industry. The immediate opportunities lie in the export of research reactors, for which some orders have already been secured, but the progress made in the application of nuclear energy to the production of power should put British industry in a good position to compete for export business in power reactors.

Mr. Neave

Is my right hon. Friend in a position to say what agreements, if any, have been made with Commonwealth countries for the sale of nuclear reactors or other plant?

Mr. Butler

One British firm is at present constructing a research reactor in Australia. Of course the sale of reactors is a commercial matter for the manufacturers concerned.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is it possible to get some agreement with the United States by which we would supply the machinery and they would supply the fuel because, unless the two go together, we shall be at a great disadvantage?

Mr. Butler

I can only refer to the agreements already reached with the United States of America, of which I will send copies to the hon. Member.