Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he was first advised of the proposed experimental shutdown on 12 February at Trawsfynydd power station in north Wales; what precautions are being taken in Northern Ireland; what are the implications of this experiment for Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Needham[holding answer 22 January 1988]: This is a matter for which Northern Ireland Government 232W Departments have no direct responsibility. I understand that a proposal has been submitted to the nuclear installations inspectorate by the Central Electricity Generating Board to carry out a test at Trawsfynydd power station.
In Northern Ireland there is continuous monitoring to identify potential radiological hazards, to determine appropriate remedial measures, and to provide advice and information to the public. The proposed test is not expected to have any particular implications for Northern Ireland.
As the Prime Minister indicated during Question Time in the House on 19 January the CEGB proposal would not involve the suspension of any safety mechanisms at the Trawsfynydd plant.