§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the proposed upgrading of the Aldermaston air base, stating the work that is to be done and the estimated cost.
§ Mr. LeeThere is no air base at Aldermaston. The upgrading of the capital facilities at the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment at Aldermaston, necessary to maintain the effectiveness of the British nuclear deterrent and ensure the achievement of essential health and safety standards, is underway and programmed to be operational in 1988. The work includes provision of facilities for plutonium processing, waste management and power generation and is estimated to cost £300 million at 1983–84 prices.