HC Deb 04 April 1967 vol 744 cc11-2
14. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Power if he will increase the nuclear generating capacity to be installed in the years 1970 to 1975.

Mr. Marsh

Plant programmes up to 1971 have already been settled. The amount of nuclear generating capacity to be installed in later years will depend on the fuel policy review and on the electricity boards' total requirements for new generating capacity.

Mr. Lubbock

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that nuclear generating capacity is now more than 10 per cent. cheaper than coal?[HON. MEMBERS: "Rubbish."] Will he therefore adopt a policy of installing only nuclear capacity until the whole of our base load is provided by this means?

Mr. Marsh

I would agree with the hon. Gentleman that it would seem that in future nuclear generation will produce very real economies. But at present the sheer difficulty of finding sites for construction does not make the programme possible. We must have a fuel policy which takes into account coal, oil, gas and electricity as a combined operation.

Mr. Biffen

Would the Minister say whether he agrees with the hon. Member for Orpington (Mr. Lubbock) that nuclear generation is 10 per cent. cheaper than coal?

Mr. Marsh

There is a lot of disputation about these matters. The thing which has to be taken into account is the capital cost, which will probably be lower in the years to come.