HC Deb 17 June 1964 vol 696 c1277
28. Sir F. Maclean

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the second reactor at Hunterston will be commissioned; and what the output will be.

Mr. Noble

The South of Scotland Electricity Board expects that the second reactor at Hunterston will be commissioned some time next month, and that it will have an initial output of 150 megawatts.

Sir F. Maclean

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this will give great satisfaction locally?

Mr. Manuel

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that owing to the main contract work now being practically run down there has been an upsurge of unemployment in the area, stretching from Irvine to Largs? Can he indicate how many permanent jobs will arise when the electricity board brings the generator into operation next month?

Mr. Noble

I cannot give the hon. Member those figures without notice, but one of the problems of finishing any great construction work is that jobs disappear.