HC Deb 19 May 1976 vol 911 cc563-4W
Mr. Gordon Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has studied the proposed final environmental statement "Liquid Metal Fast Breeder Reactor Program" Wash. 1535, US Atomic Energy Commission (ERDA) section 4.4.1.1.1. whether he accepts its conclusion that a plant of the size of Dounreay could produce five tons of heavy metal per annum containing nearly half a ton of plutonium; and whether he is satisfied that no environmental dangers arise from transport of such quantities from Dounreay to Windscale by road.

Mr. Eadie

I am aware of this statement. The material discharged from the Dounreay prototype fast reactor could, in a year, contain approximately half a ton of plutonium. When it is necessary to transport plutonium from the site, the strict safety and security precautions observed are designed to prevent danger to individuals or the environment.