HC Deb 22 July 1969 vol 787 cc1477-8
26. Mr. Gregory

asked the Minister of Power why he gave his consent to the Central Electricity Generating Board to establish a new national control centre less than 10 years after the completion of the present centre; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mason

The present national control centre was built in 1961 and is reaching the limit of its capability. The growth of the power system has led to a need for more advanced information display facilities to assist continuous surveillance of operating conditions on the system. This need will be met by the C.E.G.B's. new national control centre which, when completed, will be one of the most up to date in the world.

Mr. Gregory

Would my right hon. Friend assure the House that a British computer will be used at this new centre? Will the centre be open for viewing by potential foreign buyers?

Mr. Mason

I understand that two British Ferranti Argus 500 computers will be used in the new centre. The C.E.G.B. will be only too pleased to demonstrate the operation and performance to potential purchasers.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

What has been the cost of the new centre? What does the right hon. Gentleman intend to do with the old centre when it becomes redundant?

Mr. Mason

The cost has been £1.8 million. The new centre has been built within the old one.