§ 51. Mr. Masonasked the Prime Minister if he will consider preparing and publishing a White Paper dealing specifically with the methods of dumping radioactive waste from the atomic power stations and experimental reactors, and the monitoring system in operation for scrutinising its after effects; and to what extent adequate and safe preparations are being made for this growing problem as more atomic power stations become active.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. Much information has been published about the discharge of radioactive waste from the Atomic Energy Authority's establishments and I will send the hon. Member details.
The radioactivity of waste released from the civil nuclear power stations is expected to be negligible, but legislation covering these releases is at present under review.
§ Mr. MasonIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that present methods will be satisfactory as more atomic power stations come into being and as the problem of dumping radioactive waste into the sea inevitably grows—because it cannot be dumped inland?
§ The Prime MinisterThis is a problem which may develop in the future, and it is for that reason that the expert panel of the Radioactive Substances Advisory Committee is reviewing present legislation to see whether it requires to be strengthened or amended.