§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will list those power stations which are carrying out development trials to prove techniques for commercial fish farming; what is the nature of each of these trials; what are the commercial and scientific partners in each trial as the case may be; and if he will give a progress report on each trial.
§ Mr. EadieThe benefits of using low-grade waste heat from power stations for fish farming have been demonstrated in experiments carried out in England and Wales over a number of years. These have identified some species of fish which might be suitable for commercial fish farming at power stations. Further research work is being undertaken by the CEGB at Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station.
The Board is currently negotiating with a number of interested concerns contractual arrangements for commercial development of fish farming, initially at 339W Drax, Hinkley Point and Wylfa. I am asking the chairman of the Board to write to the hon. Member with such additional information as can be made available.
Power stations in Scotland and Northern Ireland are a matter for my right hon. Friends the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. I understand that the chairman of the Scottish Boards will be writing to the hon. Member. I am informed that there are at present no development trials in Northern Ireland, but the NIES is making preliminary inquiries with a view to possible trials at Ballylumford and the new station under construction at Kilroot.