HC Deb 02 August 1966 vol 733 cc238-9
30. Mr. David Price

asked the Minister of Technology if he will give details of the cut of £2 million in the investment programme of the Atomic Energy Authority.

The Minister of Technology (Mr. Anthony Wedgwood Benn)

The Authority is now working out the ways and means by which the £2 million reduction in its programme is to be achieved in 1967–68.

Mr. Price

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, on the basis of the 1966–67 capital expenditure figures for the A.E.A., this represents nearly a 20 per cent. cut? Is he aware that it is extremely difficult for right hon. and hon. Members to evaluate the importance of this cut to the future of the A.E.A., because we do not get any details of the capital expenditure programme of the A.E.A.? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider giving this information to the House in the future?

Mr. Benn

I will look at the second point again. The hon. Gentleman's percentages are wrong, because this reduction is contemplated in the field of civil R. & D., which was running at between £47 million and £50 million. This should be looked at in the context of the 1967–68 figures.

Mr. Dalyell

Can we have an assurance that the prototype fast-breeder reactor programme will not be cut?

Mr. Benn

In the first instance, it is for the Chairman to look at the situation in the light of the reduction we have asked him to make, but there would be no policy changes of that importance without it being brought to my notice and to the House.

Mr. Lubbock

When does the right hon. Gentleman expect to receive the Report of the Committee which is investigating the future of Culham, and is it likely that the Committee will recommend a reduction in the size of the effort devoted to fusion?

Mr. Benn

That is another question, as the hon. Gentleman knows, because he has tabled a Question about it.