§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy why the standard consultation period of six months prior to a public inquiry has not been provided in the case of the application to build a third pressurised water reactor at Wylfa in North Wales; if he will reinstate a consultation period of six months; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerMy right hon. Friend needs to set time periods in which objectors can make their views known to him. The statutory obligation on him is to give a period of not less than 21 days in which objections from the public can be made to him. I believe that the three months period which he has set in this case provides ample time for anyone who wishes to object to the proposal to do so.
In the light of all the representations he receives, my right hon. Friend will then decide whether a public inquiry is necessary. If he calls for an inquiry to be held all objectors, registered pursuant to section 34 of the Electricity Act 1957, will be sent details of the inquiry, including the procedures to be followed if the objector wishes to give evidence.