HC Deb 17 December 1981 vol 15 c184W
Mr. Gordon Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what factors his Department takes into account when evaluating the suitability of sites for nuclear power facilities.

Mr. Mellor

It is for the CEGB in the first instance to investigate and evaluate sites in England and Wales which may be suitable for a nuclear power station. However, before it can construct such a station on a selected site it must first obtain my consent together with deemed planning permission. It will also need a nuclear site licence from the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate of the Health and Safety Executive, which will take siting factors into account in arriving at its licensing decision.