HC Deb 10 December 1964 vol 703 cc1810-1
20. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade what account he proposes to take of the future development of Dounreay scientific station for industrial development in the north-east of Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Jay

I should be glad to consider any ways in which the future use of Dounreay, when this is determined, might help the industrial development of northeast Scotland and the development districts in particular.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Minister realise that the essence of my Question is directed to relating the scientific work at Dounreay to the industrial development of north-east Scotland, which is very badly needed? Will he take steps to ensure that the scientific efforts or potentialities of Dounreay are directed towards assisting north-east Scotland in this way?

Mr. Jay

Yes. I agree with my hon. and learned Friend that this is extremely important, and I will consult my colleagues who are more immediately concerned with the future of Dounreay.

Mr. George Y. Mackie

Is the Minister aware that the greatest service to industrial development he could make would be to persuade his right hon. Friends to make up their minds about whether they intend to go ahead with the prototype fast breeder reactor and where they are going to place it? Would he try to persuade them to place it at Dounreay where the skills are assembled to make it work well?

Mr. Jay

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that it is very important that this decision should be taken reasonably soon.