HC Deb 20 June 1974 vol 875 cc243-4W
Dr. John A. Cunningham

asked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) how much metallic plutonium is currently stored at Windscale; and what is the rate of annual increase at the present time;

(2) how much plutonium in the form of compounds of that element is currently stored in the United Kingdom: and which locations are involved;

(3) if he will name the locations at which plutonium metal is stored in the United Kingdom;

(4) what is the annual rate of manufacture of plutonium metal in the United Kingdom;

(5) how much plutonium in the form of compounds of the element is currently stored at Windscale; and what is the rate of increase at the present time.

Mr. Eadie

I have been asked to reply.

Several tonnes of plutonium are currently in store in the United Kingdom. It would not be in the national interest to disclose the form in which this material is held or other details. The rate of increase of this stock depends upon the characteristics of the fuel processed and the allocation of the plutonium product between various outlets.