HC Deb 28 April 1976 vol 910 cc119-20W
Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what has been the cost for each of the past five years of evasive action taken due to corrosion or leakage of radioactive waste at each nuclear plant in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Eadie

This information is not readily available. I do not consider that the cost of a survey to attempt to obtain it would be justified.

Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what proportion of radioactive waste at present being stored in the United Kingdom is classified as being of low activity.

Mr. Benn

Although it is not practicable to give a precise figure, it is estimated that some 50 per cent. of the total radioactive waste stored in the United Kingdom is of low activity.

Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if the amount of radioactive waste stored at plants in the United Kingdom is expected to increase or decrease over the next five years and if he will give the basis on which he makes projections of this kind.

Mr. Benn

The amount of radioactive waste stored at nuclear plants in the United Kingdom will generally increase over the next five years. This waste will arise principally from those nuclear power stations presently in operation and those coming into operation over the next five years.

Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what has been the principal cause of corrosion in steel drums of radioactive waste stored in the United Kingdom; and what steps are being taken to eliminate this danger.

Mr. Benn

The principal cause of corrosion of steel drums containing radioactive waste in the United Kingdom is the damp atmosphere. Drums will be replaced as inspection demonstrates the need.

Mr. Dodsworth

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will list the amount of radioactive waste at present stored in each nuclear plant in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Benn

The storage capacity currently available for radioactive wastes in the United Kingdom was given in my reply to the hon. Member on 26th April 1976. Knowledge of the exact quantity of radioactive waste stored at each nuclear site is not readily available but it is estimated that approximately 50 per cent. of the total capacity is now being utilised. Additional storage facilities will be made available in accordance with programmed requirements.

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