HC Deb 12 February 1968 vol 758 cc930-1
12. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Minister of Technology what negotiations the Atomic Energy Authority has had with prospective aluminium smelting companies with a view to building and operating a power station to supply the needs of the Atomic Energy Authority, Capenhurst, as well as the proposed aluminium smelting industry.

Dr. Bray

A proposal from Rio Tinto Zinc and the A.E.A. for a jointly-owned nuclear power station was examined by the Government, in consultation with C.E.G.B. This led to consideration of the provision of power for aluminium smelters as a separate issue, and the Government are at present examining proposals.

Mr. Osborn

Is there any reason why the A.E.A. should not generate its own power for any purposes in conjunction with Rio Tinto Zinc, and are the Government and the Ministry of Technology opposing the project as undesirable or supporting it?

Dr. Bray

On the contrary, the proposal opened the way to the development of the aluminium smelter industry in this country, which introduced the principle of special tariffs for loads of this characteristic. The Government have said that these loads are in principle available for similar projects, and when proposals are put up for the expansion of Capenhurst the case can be made.

Mr. Dalyell

Can my hon. Friend say when the examination to which he has referred is likely to be completed?

Dr. Bray

In accordance with the time scale for the completion of Capenhurst, which is not yet firm.