HC Deb 25 June 1964 vol 697 cc118-9W
Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Power what is the megawatt output stipulated for the various types of nuclear power stations, tenders for which are now being invited, and on the cost of which the Government will decide the type to be adopted.

Mr. Erroll

Under the Central Electricity Generating Board's specification, an advanced gas-cooled station at Dunganess would have an output capacity of about 920 MW. I understand the output of stations using alternative reactor systems may be somewhat larger. The Board have undertaken to ensure that tenders are judged on a comparable basis, and the results of the comparison will be reviewed by the Government in conjunction with the electricity supply industry and the Atomic Energy Authority.

Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Power to what extent the specifications of the United States and British types of nuclear power stations, on which the consortia are now being invited to submit tenders, place the British type at a disadvantage when the Government has to decide which type to adopt.

Mr. Erroll

The only specification issued by the Central Electricity Generating Board is for an advanced gas-cooled reactor station. The Board have stated that they would also be ready to consider tenders from British industry for water moderated reactor systems and these tenders would be expected to meet requirements of safety and performance comparable with those of the A.G.R. The Board have undertaken to ensure that tenders are judged on a comparable basis, and the results of the comparison will be reviewed by the Government in conjunction with the electricity supply industry and the Atomic Energy Authority.