§ Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Transport if he will make a further statement about the development of nuclear propulsion for merchant shipping.
§ Mr. MarplesThe Government's policy is to pursue a vigorous programme of research aimed at a reactor system which is economically attractive to a wide range of shipping. This programme will cost about £3 million spread over about three years and is being carried out by the Atomic Energy Authority in conjunction with the166W nuclear industry. Its scope is determined by a high level Working Group on which shipowners and Shipbuilders are represented.
The latest development, announced on 16th May, is the signing of an agreement between the Atomic Energy Authority and a consortium of Belgian companies to develop an advanced version of the pressurised water reactor which shows promise for marine propulsion.
We are co-operating in the studies which are being made by the European Nuclear Energy Agency of the possibility of constructing and operating a nuclear merchant ship on an international basis.