HC Deb 15 February 1988 vol 127 cc510-1W
25. Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the current series of tests at nuclear power stations.

Mr. Michael Spicer

The CEGB has decided to postpone the natural circulation test scheduled for 12 February at Trawsfynydd nuclear power station. Any new proposal for a test is a matter for the board, subject to the agreement of the Health and Safety Executive's Nuclear Installations Inspectorate.

27. Mr. Martyn Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he was consulted by the Central Electricity Generating Board about the specific selection of locations for the cooling tests to be performed at Trawsfynydd and Wylfa nuclear power stations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Michael Spicer

This is a operational matter for the CEGB. No test can go ahead unless the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate is satisfied that it is safe.

Mr. Frank Cook

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will invite a safety team from the International Energy operations safety review team to evaluate the safety of any planned tests or experiments at Trawsfynydd nuclear plant or any other nuclear establishment before they are undertaken.

Mr. Michael Spicer

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Meirionnydd Nant Conwy (Dr. Thomas) on 11 February 1988 at column347.