§ Mr. Gordon Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Energy, how many development contracts for prototype components of the SGHWR have so far been placed; and when, according to latest estimates, a start is likely to be made on the construction of the first SGHWR power station.
§ Mr. EadieThe National Nuclear Corporation and its operating subsidiary the Nuclear Power Co. are responsible for the conduct of the SGHWR development programme. They have placed contracts for specific items of development work and are considering orders for prototype components. Discussions currently in hand with the electricity boards should clarify the timetable for safety clearance of the detailed design by the nuclear installations inspectorate and the start of construction.
§ Mr. Gordon Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is now able to give an indication of when his Department's investigation into the safety of the pressurised water reactor will be completed; and whether a full report on its findings will be published.
§ Mr. EadieThe nuclear installations inspectorate has this in hand but it is too early to give a date for completion. The SGHWR has priority. Careful consideration will be given to the possibility of publication.