§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what estimate has been made of the total costs of the construction of the Hunterston nuclear power station; how this will be paid for; and who will be responsible for payment;
(2) whether he will institute an inquiry into the construction of the Hunterston nuclear power station, and its estimated and eventual costs; on whose advice the construction and costs were based; and what services the Atomic Energy Authority has rendered in respect of this project.
§ Mr. MaclayThe original estimate of £37½ million based on the General Electric Company's tender, was subject to adjustments on certain heads specified in the contract. The final price depends on the outcome of current negotiations for the settlement of these adjustments. The price will be met by the Board in the usual way, partly from internal resources and partly from capital loans. The design was prepared 97W by the Company. The services rendered by the Atomic Energy Authority were described by my hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Secretary for Science, in reply to the hon. Member on 4th June. The Board have kept me informed about progress and I do not consider there is any need to institute an inquiry.