§ Mr. Macfarlaneasked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the present level of research and development activity into nuclear fusion as an alternative energy source; how much money has been spent by his Department during 1976–77; and which of the energy agencies is conducting experimental research.
§ Mr. EadieI am advised that in the year ended 31st March 1977 the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority deployed some 170 qualified scientists and engineers plus their support staff on research and development into nuclear418W fusion as an alternative energy source. This level of activity is continuing in the current year pending a decision on the location of the JET project. The Authority's gross cash expenditure on nuclear fusion research in 1976–77 was £75 million of which £20 million came through the European Commission. The Authority is the only energy agency carrying opt nuclear fusion work in the United Kingdom. The main effort is concentrated at the Culham laboratory near Oxford.