§ Mr. Hillasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps are being taken by his Department in the light of recent reports indicating a possible connection between radioactive discharges from atomic energy research stations and the high levels of leukaemia in nearby areas.
§ Mr. WaldegraveI assume the hon. Member has in mind the claim by an organisation called SCREAM that increased levels of cancer have been caused in certain 867W areas by discharges from the Atomic Energy Estblishment, Winfrith (Dorset). These discharges are made by the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority under authorisations given jointly by my Department and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF); information about discharges is published in the additional tables to my Department's annual review of environmental pollution and water statistics and monitoring results in the MAFF publication, "Radioactivity in surface and coastal waters of the British Isles". The maximum calculated 868W radiation dose as a result of the discharges is, at most, about 1 per cent. of the limit recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection.
The Department of Health and Social Security are examining the figures quoted in the SCREAM statement, and have consulted the regional cancer registry. If appropriate, in the light of their conclusions, I shall seek advice from the Radioactive Waste Management Advisory Committee about whether further action needs to be taken.