Atomic Weapons Research Establishment, Aldermaston

HC Deb 13 January 1981 vol 996 c521W

Mr. Frank Alluan

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose and cost of the new plant at Aldermaston; and whether he intends to consult Parliament before the work commences.

Mr. Goodhart

As part of our policy of improving the existing capital facilities at the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment at Aldermaston, and in order to maintain the effectiveness of the British nuclear deterrent, a new building will be constructed to replace existing facilities for processing nuclear materials. Construction will take about six years.

It has been the practice of successive Governments not to disclose detailed costs related to the nuclear programme.

My predecessor informed the House in some detail about recent developments at Aldermaston in the Adjournment debate on the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment on 21 December 1979.—[Vol. 976, c. 1107–112.] I refer the hon. Member to that debate.