HC Deb 26 June 1972 vol 839 cc232-3W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what representations he has had from Atomic Energy of Canada on collaboration On nuclear power projects;

  1. (2) if he will publish the letter from Mr. Lorne Gray, President of Atomic Energy of Canada, to Sir Anthony Part offering technical support to Her Majesty's Government in relation to Central Electricity Generating Board projects; and what reply has been sent;
  2. (3) whether he has referred Canadian proposals in the field of nuclear power to the Vinter Committee.

Mr. Emery

The Canadian Government have proposed that, if the United Kingdom adopts heavy water reactors for commercial use, as Canada has, the two countries should conclude an agreement on the exchange of relevant technical information. The Vinter Committee completed its work before this proposal came forward, but we are considering it carefully and will take it into account in our review of reactor policy. The Government's response to this proposal will depend on the outcome of that review. It would not be appropriate to publish it.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what study he has made of 500 megawatt heavy water reactors;

(2) what study he has made of the Candu nuclear system.

Mr. Emery

The Department has made a detailed study of the steam generating heavy water reactor, in collaboration with the generating boards and the atomic energy authority. The study has covered economic, technical, industrial and safety questions. Officials of the Department have visited Candu nuclear plants in Canada and have held talks with Canadian officials in London.