Scottish Nuclear

HC Deb 06 July 1994 vol 246 cc304-5

4. Mr. Eric Clarke

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with Scottish Nuclear on its expansion proposals for nuclear electricity generating capacity.

Mr. Stewart

As Scottish Nuclear has no plans to expand its nuclear generating capacity, my right hon. Friend has naturally not discussed the subject with it.

Mr. Clarke

Will the Minister take it from me that moves are afoot to expand the nuclear industry? I am surprised at the answer that I have just received. Does he recognise that more than 50 per cent. of the electricity industry's generating capacity in Scotland is through nuclear power, which is extremely inefficient as it costs Scottish people more than alternative forms of energy? When he meets Scottish Nuclear about its expansion, will he recognise the fact that a question mark hangs over environmental arguments and the decommissioning of Hunterston A before he grants permission for any type of expansion? A moratorium would be better. I hope that the Minister will join me in ensuring that the people of Scotland are not penalised further because of the folly of nuclear power in their area.

Mr. Stewart

A large number of people, not just on this side of the House, would disagree with the hon. Gentleman's views. There are no plans for an expansion of nuclear-generated capacity. There is interest in replacement of Hunterston B, but that is a different matter. I should make it clear that the Government are committed to the nuclear option, provided that it can prove economic. One of Scotland's great benefits is the variety of sources of supply to its electricity generation industry.

Mr. Gallie

Does my hon. Friend agree that Scottish Nuclear is built on success in electricity generation? Does he also agree that, given the restrictions on carbon dioxide emissions, an adequate and cost-effective supply of energy resources in Scotland will depend largely on the nuclear resource if Scotland's economic future is to be secure?

Mr. Stewart

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to point to the importance of nuclear energy for Scottish industry and Scottish consumers. Scottish Nuclear Ltd. plans to increase its output by 18 per cent. by 1998 and to control costs—wholly consistently with safety, of course. The contribution that SNL has made to electricity generation is one of which all Scotland should be proud.

Mr. Hood

The Minister will know that thousands of Scottish children travel from school to visit nuclear power station exhibition centres, and they do so in minibuses and coaches. When do the Government intend to bring forward legislation to make seat belts compulsory to protect our children—

Madam Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman is on totally the wrong question. In that case, we shall now move on.