HC Deb 09 November 1987 vol 122 cc27-8W
Mr. Barron

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what information he has as to the average construction time for pressurised water reactors in the United States of America.

Mr. Michael Spicer

Information on the construction time of pressurised water reactors in the USA has been published by various organisations.

Detailed information was submitted as evidence to the Sizewell B inquiry by the CEGB and by objectors, and the matter is covered in chapters 67 and 69 of the inspector's report to the then Secretary of State. A copy of the inspector's report is in the Library.

Mr. Barron

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many applications he has received from the Central Electricity Generating Board for the construction of pressurised water reactors; and when they were received.

Mr. Michael Spicer

My Department has received two applications from the Central Electricity Generating Board for the construction of pressurised water reactors. The application for the first, Sizewell B, was received on 30 January 1981 and consent was granted on 12 March 1987. The application for the second, Hinkley Point C, was received on 27 August 1987.

Mr. Barron

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what further steps are being considered for the construction of pressurised water reactors.

Mr. Michael Spicer

It is for the Central Electricity Generating Board to submit applications for new power stations in England and Wales. The board is at present investigating a number of possible sites for further nuclear development, including Wylfa and Trawsfynydd in north Wales, Winfrith in Dorset, Druridge in Northumberland and Dungeness in Kent.