§ 75. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science what progress is being made with the research scheme for nuclear propulsion in shipping; what consultation is taking place on this matter between the Atomic Energy Authority and industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethA nuclear ship design team has been established by the Atomic Energy Authority in conjunction with the British Ship Research Association and other interested organisations. This team is now working on the design, safety and operating problems of nuclear ships of various types.
The principal systems being studied are the steam-cooled and steam-generating heavy water reactors and advanced designs of pressurised water and boiling water reactors. Contracts for design study work have been negotiated with the Nuclear Power Group, the United Power Company, Rolls Royce and Babcock and Wilcox.
Work is also in progress on reactor physics, engineering development, fuel element technology and reactor materials in support of the marine reactor systems.