HC Deb 27 June 1967 vol 749 cc61-2W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Technology what study he is making of the use of reactors to provide processed steam for industrial and district heating purposes.

Dr. Bray

No current study is being made of the use of nuclear reactors to provide process steam for industrial and district heating purposes, but the Atomic Energy Authority is keeping the matter under review in consultation with the Ministry of Public Building and Works.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Technology whether, in view of the urgency of bringing fast-breeder reactors into commercial use, he will increase research into the potential of steam-cooled fast reactors.

Dr. Bray

Before seeking authorisation for the construction of the sodium cooled prototype fast reactor, the Atomic Energy Authority appraised the relative merits of fast reactors using other coolants including gas and steam. They concluded that the use of sodium coolant offered the best prospect for early commercial exploitation of fast reactors but evaluation of the possibility of other coolants will continue in the light of developments.

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