HC Deb 16 June 1986 vol 99 c750
12. Mr. Pike

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he plans to raise the question of safety standards in the nuclear power industry with the European Council of Ministers.

Mr. Peter Walker

At its meeting on 3 June the Energy Council discussed the implications of the nuclear accident at Chernobyl. Member states of the Community agreed that internationally the appropriate forum in which to take follow-up action on nuclear safety issues is the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Mr. Pike

What recent reviews have taken place on the safety factors of our Magnox stations, and what future reviews are planned? Will information about the safety of those stations be published and fully discussed by the European Council of Ministers?

Mr. Walker

I am pleased to say that the Nuclear Inspectorate of this country has total control over nuclear safety. It is independent, and it constantly inspects and reviews all nuclear installations.