§ 21. Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement about any proposals to build a commercial scale nuclear fast reactor, in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. BennNo decision has yet been taken on whether to build a commercial fast reactor in the United Kingdom. I have in hand a review of our policy towards the next stage of the system's development, including the possible construction of a full-scale demonstration reactor. I am determined that before a decision is reached there should be proper public debate of all the issues involved on the basis of a full disclosure of the evidence.
§ 26. Mr. Formanasked the Secretary of State for Energy what investigations his Department is conducting into the security measures that may be required in association with a full programme of fast breeder reactor development.
§ Dr. John A. CunninghamThe Government keep under continuing review security measures for the protection of nuclear installations and especially those where plutonium is used or stored. We shall take full account of security implications in reaching our decisions on the development of the fast reactor.
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29. Mr. Hookyasked the Secretary of State for Energy what discussions have taken place with the French authorities about the development of the fast breeder reactor.
§ Mr. BennI am currently engaged in a review of policy relating to the possible construction of a full-scale demonstration fast reactor, in the light of developments abroad.