§ Mr. Home Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the loading of nuclear fuel at Torness power station and on contingency plans to deal with accidents at Torness, including the area of the emergency evacuation zone; and if he will list those responsible for protecting and informing the public.
§ Mr. LangHer Majesty's Nuclear Installations Inspectorate granted consent to the South of Scotland Electricity Board on Manday 20 July to allow fuel loading in the first reactor at Torness. I am advised by the Board that fuel loading has commenced.
The inspectorate has also approved the emergency arrangements, including arrangements for evacuation within 3 km of the site, in terms of the site licensing requirements. Action for the protection and notification 584W of the public in the event of an accident is a matter for Lothian and Borders police, based upon advice from the board or the Government technical adviser if one is appointed.