HC Deb 01 April 1974 vol 871 cc874-5
38. Mr. Grylls

asked the Secretary of State for Energy when he expects to announce his decision on the continuing programme for the nuclear power stations.

Mr. Eadie

We expect to announce decisions on the nuclear power programme as soon as all the relevant factors have been fully considered.

Mr. Grylls

In the light of critical concern and doubt about the American light water reactor, will the hon. Gentleman publish a Green Paper before making the final decision?

Mr. Eadie

I will bear that suggestion in mind.

Mr. Palmer

Has my hon. Friend any advance information about when the promised debate on the report of the Select Committee on Science and Technology on nuclear reactor choices will be held?

Mr. Eadie

I understand that my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House has promised that there will be a debate, and it is a matter for him.

Mr. Cryer

Is it not the case that if we bought nuclear reactors from abroad we would be selling our British technology down the river, as the last Government appeared to be ready to do?

Mr. Eadie

Six choices are being considered at present, and I have to tell my hon. Friend that the light water reactor is only one of the possible choices being examined by the Nuclear Power Advisory Board. No decision has been taken to install light water reactors in this country.