§ Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Energy what undertaking or statements he has given to industrial groups and trade union groups to the effect that there is no case for building a commercial size fast breeder reactor, bearing in mind that there is yet to be a public inquiry on the subject.
§ Mr. BennNo decisions about the construction of a commercial demonstration fast reactor (CDFR) have been taken or announced and no undertakings have been given. The options open to us are still under study and I am at present awaiting detailed proposals from the bodies concerned. We have made it clear that any decision to build a CDFR in this country would be subject to a public inquiry. My own view, which I have expressed in discussions, is that the case for a pause is strong.