HC Deb 27 November 1981 vol 13 cc500-1W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the return to power of Dungeness "A" nuclear power station.

Mr. Lawson

I am advised by the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate (NII) that it has given formal approval for the resumption of electricity generation from reactor 2 at Dungeness "A" nuclear power station. This reactor has been shut down since January 1980 following the discovery of weld defects in the bellows units associated with the coolant gas ducts at the station as previously reported to the House—[Vol. 976, c.826–8.] The CEGB has carried out a comprehensive programme of inspection and testing for all the gas circuits on reactor 2 and has completed any necessary repairs. They have demonstrated to the NH that the strength of the affected units provides adequate safety margins and that there will be no significant deterioration during operation. The NII is satisfied that the reactor can now be safely returned to power. Reactor 1 continues to be shut down for similar remedial work. Its return to power will also be subject to approval by the NII.

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