HC Deb 02 May 1990 vol 171 cc1020-1
7. Mr. Maclennan

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has received concerning the investigation of the suitability of an underground repository for nuclear waste at Dounreay; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority has lodged an appeal against Highland regional council's decision to refuse planning permission for the drilling of two test boreholes at Dounreay nuclear power development establishment.

Mr. Maclennan

I recognise that any seismic or geological examination of the proposed site will add considerably to our scientific knowledge, but will the Under-Secretary give a categorical undertaking on behalf of the Government that no such proposal will find favour with the Government without the most searching public inquiry, at which any objectors may be properly and fully publicly financed, so that the case can be considered in depth?

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

What the hon. Gentleman has said will be taken into account. The Secretary of State expects to announce his decision shortly. All appeal cases of this nature receive extremely careful consideration and the period taken to consider the appeal is no longer than in other comparable cases. My right hon. and learned Friend expects to announce his decision shortly and will take into account what the hon. Gentleman says.