§ Mr. Strangasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will instruct the local authorities in Glasgow 171W and Edinburgh to produce detailed evacuation plans for a maximum credible accident under adverse meteorological conditions at the nearest nuclear power station.
§ Mr. LangMy right hon. and learned Friend has no powers to direct local authorities on these matters. It is for the authorities concerned to draw up contingency plans for responding in the unlikely event of an accident at a civil nuclear installation, including arrangements for assisting with evacuation where this is considered advisable. The plans should be compatible with those prepared by nuclear site operators and other appropriate bodies, including the emergency services.
§ Mr. Strangasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans there are in existence for the emergency supply of water following a nuclear accident for Edinburgh and Glasgow.
§ Mr. AncramGovernment plans for civil nuclear emergencies, and those of nuclear site operators, include arrangements for notifying water authorities whose supplies may be affected, for monitoring these supplies and for advising authorities accordingly. While drinking water would rank very low as a health risk following a nuclear accident, if monitoring results indicated a need for action the responsible water authority would implement plans to introduce alternative supplies.