§ Mr. John Evansasked the Secretary of State for Energy when he expects the design work on SGHWRs to he completed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EadieThis is a matter for the National Nuclear Corporation. I understand that it is preparing a reference design, on the basis of which components will be developed, and which will lead to a firm proposal to meet the electricity boards' requirements for a design for construction.
§ Mr. John Evansasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate will be able to issue a safety certificate for the SGHWRs, to be built at Torness and Sizewell, before the design work on these reactors is completed.
§ Mr. EadieA nuclear site licence cannot be granted before the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate of the Health and Safety Executive has assessed the design safety of the proposed plant. Applicants are required to furnish the necessary design information to satisfy the inspectorate that the plant can be constructed and operated safely. Licences are granted by the executive under the Nuclear Installations Act 1965.