§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the computer software programme designed to protect the Sizewell B reactor from major accident.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryThe reactor protection system planned for Sizewell B comprises a primary protection system which is computer based and a secondary system which is not so based. The Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate—NII—will not consent to the operation of the primary protection system's computer software until the operator, Nuclear Electric plc. has made an acceptable safety case.
The NII's decision to publish its safety requirements in respect of the software system has shown its openness on such matters and should assist public awareness of what is being required, and should demonstrate the high standards which Nuclear Electric plc will have to meet.
The NII is seeking a robust demonstration of excellence of production, independent design assessment, and a comprehensive testing from prototype through to production.