Nuclear Power Stations (Radioactive Waste)

HC Deb 07 November 1967 vol 753 cc806-7

2. Mr. Brooks

asked the Minister of Power what is the present forecast of the amount of radioactive waste anticipated annually from the nuclear power stations likely to be in operation in Great Britain in 10, 20, and 30 years' time from now; and how is the gaseous component of that waste to be disposed of.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Mr. Reginald Freeson)

There is no simple basis on which to give such long term forecasts. Future radioactive waste arisings will depend, for example, not only on the number and design of nuclear stations, but also on fuel element design. Low activity solid waste is accumulated safely on all station sites. High activity waste is trapped within the fuel elements which are returned to atomic energy establishments. Day to day gaseous waste, the chief radioactive constituent of which is argon 41 with a half-life of less than two hours, is discharged into the atmosphere under stringent control which ensures that it presents no hazard to health.

Mr. Brooks

I thank my hon. Friend for his detailed reply. However, is he not aware that the likely expansion in the output of highly dangerous radioactive material—dangerous to life for up to 600 years—will present very serious difficulties in years ahead, particularly as it is unlikely that the disposal of the gaseous component can be achieved by the same methods in future?

Mr. Freeson

As I understand the position, if the present facilities for waste storage were taken up, further provision could be made available by extending the present facilities on site. There is site space available. However, there are complicated factors in this kind of subject, as was indicated in my Answer. If my hon. Friend would like to write to us about the matter, we will pursue it in detail with him.

Mr. Lubbock

Was not the recent speech by Dr. Schumacher of the National Coal Board highly irresponsible and misleading? Would the hon. Gentleman consider issuing a leaflet which hon. Members can use to reassure any constituents who may have had anxieties aroused by his speech?

Mr. Freeson

The answer to the first part of the supplementary question is "Yes". Certainly we would consider issuing an explanatory leaflet on this subject if hon. Members would like to pursue the matter with us.