§ Mr. Brooksasked the Minister of Technology whether he has yet received the report on the economics of a nuclear-powered merchant ship; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Harold Lever:I have now received the report on this study. It carefully reviews all the information available and takes into account the operation of nuclear-powered vessels on both a single-ship and a fleet basis. The report offers the conclusion that nuclear-powered merchant ships will not become competitive with conventional ships within the foreseeable future. It reveals that, in addition to the cost of development, there would be a continuing need for a subsidy to cover operating costs. The report indicates that the development of such a vessel would not add to the short-term employment prospects in the shipbuilding industry.
In preparing the report a wide range of interested parties have been consulted. I propose to publish the report as soon as possible.