HC Deb 09 December 1986 vol 107 c136W
Mr. Home Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what sections of the Torness emergency plan were approved by Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate before fuelling of the reactor was started; and if he will arrange for a copy of these sections to be placed in the Library.

Mr. Lang

[pursuant to his reply, 28 November 1986, c. 411–12]: The fuel load stage of commissioning at Torness nuclear power station has not started. A limited number of channels have been loaded with fuel for the purpose of gas flow tests and interim emergency arrangements specific to this phase were approved by Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate beforehand. These comprise section B of the "Interim Emergency Manual, Issue 1." The South of Scotland Electricity Board has undertaken to place a copy of that section in the Library.

Mr. Home Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what sections of the Torness emergency plan are required to be approved by Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate before commissioning procedures beyond the fuelling of the reactor; when these sections were or are likely to be approved; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

[pursuant to his reply, 28 November 1986, c. 411–12]: Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate requires that the South of Scotland Electricity Board has an emergency plan commensurate with the requirements of each particular stage of commissioning. At each stage the board has had and will have suitable emergency arrangements as required by HMNII.

Mr. Home Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects the full emergency plan for Torness nuclear power station to be approved by Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate.

Mr. Lang

[pursuant to his reply, 28 November 1986, c. 411–12]: The full emergency plan for Torness nuclear power station will be approved when Her Majesty's nuclear installations inspectorate is fully satisfied with the plan and the demonstration of its application. I cannot say at present when that will be.