HC Deb 30 June 1976 vol 914 cc181-2W
Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what recent calculations have been made about the cost of the SGHWR reactor; and what variations have occurred since first estimates were drawn up.

Mr. Benn

The Nuclear Power Company has recently completed reference design documentation for the SGHWR. On the basis of this, it will be carrying forward further work including the preparation of up-to-date cost estimates.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what stoppage has occurred with regard to a starting date for the construction programme of the SGHWR reactor.

Mr. Benn

Work by the industry and electricity generating boards has been directed to starting construction of the first reactor unit at the earliest sensible date. I am advised that the industry's present target is spring 1978.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy when it is expected that the Nuclear Power Company will complete the reference design for the SGHWR reactor; and whether this is later or earlier than the date originally estimated.

Mr. Benn

The Nuclear Power Company has recently submitted full reference design documentation to the electricity boards. I am advised that work since July 1974 has shown that there is more to be done in launching SGHWR than NPC's predecessors estimated.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the earliest date by which it is now envisaged that the first unit of the SGHWR reactors will come into operation; and how this compares with the time scale calculated when this design was chosen by Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Benn

I am advised that the Nuclear Power Company's current target for full power on the first reactor unit is mid-1984. At the time of the Government's decision, our nuclear organisations advised that it would be 1982 at best before operating experience would be available.

Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what consultations are being held with the Canadian authorities about the design and development of the SGHWR reactors.

Mr. Benn

This is a management matter for the National Nuclear Corporation, and I am asking the chairman to write to my hon. Friend.