§ 8. Commander Courtneyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he is satisfied that the Atomic Energy Authority is properly equipped to exploit the export potential of advanced British nuclear reactors, techniques, and material; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir E. BoyleThe Authority's main task in relation to exports is to support the engineering industry's efforts to open up markets abroad for reactor systems, knowledge and material developed in the course of our own nuclear programme. I am satisfied that it is well equipped to do this. It has also had considerable success on its own account in selling radioisotopes, fuel and reprocessing services in overseas markets.
§ Commander CourtneyWill my right hon. Friend answer two points? First, we have a great deal to sell, particularly in connection with advanced gas-cooled reactors and fast breeder reactors. Secondly, our American competitors are 1522 well ahead of us in this high pressure national salesmanship, as is shown in the aviation industry. Will he look at this matter again, because as he will appreciate from having been to America, his Department is not geared to a specific export drive?
§ Sir E. BoyleI shall gladly look at any evidence my hon. and gallant Friend chooses to send to me, but I should point out that for some years now the Authority has been the largest exporter of radioisotopes in the world and has a considerably encouraging record in the export of fuel elements and other special materials.