HC Deb 13 December 1982 vol 34 c16
24. Mr. Maclennan

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will set out the terms of reference for the discussions between the chairman of the Atomic Energy Authority and the chairmen of the generating boards on the programme for the fast breeder reactor.

Mr. John Moore

As my right hon. Friend has already informed the House, the chairman of the Atomic Energy Authority has been invited, in consultation with the generating boards, British Nuclear Fuels Ltd., and the National Nuclear Corporation, to draw up a fast breeder reactor development programme which makes the best use of our resources and experience.

Mr. Maclennan

What conditions has the Minister attached to the study? In particular, can he say whether the plans are contingent upon the participation of other countries? Is the domestic industry free to produce its own proposals?

Mr. Moore

To the extent that the domestic groups to which I have referred have been asked to draw up plans, the Government have said publicly that in the world of fast breeder reactors they would welcome the possibility and prospect of international co-operation. Equally, it has not been made a pre-condition, because obviously it might restrict the organisations in developing proper plans for our country.

Mr. Rost

Will the Minister confirm that one of the main objectives of the study is to simplify the design so that the cost of the fast breeder reactor can be brought within the realms of economic possibility?

Mr. Moore

It would be premature to deal with points such as those that my hon. Friend has just made. We wish to secure the best fast breeder development programme for our country.

Mr. John Smith

Is the Minister aware of the anxiety, not just in the locality of this fast breeder reactor, but over a more widespread area, that there is a possibility of a slowing down in the programme? Will he confirm that the Government will not put any obstacles in the way and ensure that the fast breeder programme continues actively?

Mr. Moore

I have difficulty in understanding the right hon. Gentleman's comments, because anxiety was expressed during the period of the review. However, I see from the local press that the director of Dounreay, the chairman of the Dounreay action council, the industrial head of the Highlands and Islands Development Board and the chairman of Caithness district council were pleased with the announcement. It seems to me that the fact that all those in the area who were legitimately worried during the process of the review have been reassured is crucial for the future of the programme.