HC Deb 23 March 1970 vol 798 cc955-6
12. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a further statement on the construction of a nuclear-powered merchant ship.

71. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on the cost estimates regarding the construction of a nuclear-powered merchant ship.

Dr. Ernest A. Davies

I made a statement in some detail about the present position to the House last Tuesday in a debate on the Adjournment. There is nothing more that I can say to the House at present that would be helpful.

Mr. Wall

I appreciate that this is basically a question of economic viability but, as the hon. Member is aware, the whole question has been under discussion for over 10 years. Can he say when he will be in a position to make a statement on the matter?

Dr. Davies

As I told the House on Tuesday night, we hope to have the result of this study coming forward very shortly. It will be brought before Ministers, and we shall then consider how best to bring it before hon. Members.

Mr. Shinwell

Can my hon. Friend assure the House that the Chamber of Shipping and the shipbuilding interests have been consulted? In addition, will he give an assurance that before the Government embark on any expenditure on this project they will ascertain what has been the experience of the United States of America and the Soviet Union in relation to it?

Dr. Davies

I can assure my right hon. Friend that all the interests to which he has alluded have been consulted and all the sources to which he has alluded have been carefully examined.