HC Deb 27 January 1976 vol 904 cc144-5W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what research has been undertaken in the United Kingdom covering the use of capsules in pipelines to transport bulk minerals and waste products; and how many establishments are involved.

Mr. Marks

The British Hydromechanics Research Association (BHRA) was commissioned by the Transport and Road Research Laboratory in 1973–74 to study the technical and economic feasibility of pneumatic capsule pipelines; and in 1974–75 to carry out model-scale experiments on a patented design of pressure booster. An independent investigation of the relative technical and economic merits of alternative transport systems for aggregates, including pneumatic capsule pipelines, was carried out in 1973–74 by an aggregate producer. The Scottish Development Department included capsule pipelines in a study of the movement of colliery waste from the Ayrshire coalfield.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what amount of Government and State corporation funds have been or are likely to be involved in pipeline research of the Transport and Road Research Laboratory at Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.

Mr. Marks

Total Government expenditure for the pilot project to be carried out at Milton Keynes is estimated at £200,000 at current costs. The Central Electricity Generating Board, the National Coal Board and the British Steel Corporation will be contributing expert manpower, services, materials and equipment valued at approximately £26,000.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what research is being undertaken in France and the Federal Republic of Germany on pneumatic capsule pipelines; and whether any collaboration has been reached with United Kingdom interests.

Mr. Marks

France, the Federal Republic of Germany and the United Kingdom subscribe to a multi-client study on the evolution of pipeline transport techniques at the Battelle Research Centre in Geneva which is due to be completed this year. I cannot at once say what other research is being done in France and the Federal Republic, but I will write to the hon. Member about this as soon as I can.