§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Transport if any impact tests have been conducted on containers used for the transport of irradiated fuel elements other than models; and if he will list the tests, the dates and the results.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeNo full-size irradiated fuel flasks have been subjected to impact tests in this country. Scale model testing is a valid and widely-used technique permitted under the International Atomic Energy Agency regulations as a means of demonstrating compliance with the appropriate standards.
§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Transport what stage of design has been reached in the production of a flask to carry irradiated fuel elements by rail which could withstand a direct blow from a tunnel or bridge abutment at the maximum speed of the train.
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§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeIrradiated fuel has always been transported in accordance with the internationally-agreed IAEA regulations which include tests to ensure that the flasks are designed and constructed so as to withstand intact a range of severe impact accidents. Studies are continuing which take into account possible future changes in transport conditions or the nuclear power programme.
§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Transport what checks are carried out on flasks used to carry irradiated fuel; how often these are conducted; and what standards are imposed to ensure avoidance of any pollution during use.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the right hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ashley) on 27 February 1980.—[Vol. 979, c.619.]