§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what is the current level of Wigner energy in the four reactor vessels at Chapelcross; what is the maximum recommended level; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Allan Stewart[holding answer 22 January 1992]This is an operational matter for British Nuclear Fuels plc as licensed operators of the Chapelcross site. The situation there is of course routinely monitored and regularly reviewed by BNF, and also by the Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy whether any area of the Chapelcross Magnox reactor's pressure vessels operate in an embrittled state during normal operation, start up or closing down; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Allan Stewart[holding answer 22 January 1992]I understand that the design of the steel reactor pressure vessels at British Nuclear Fuels plc's Magnox nuclear power station at Chapelcross is such that they have not been irradiated to the same extent as reactor pressure vessels at other Magnox stations. The Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate (NII) approves the rules governing the operating conditions of all Magnox reactor pressure vessels, including those at Chapelcross, and ensures that there are adequate safety margins during all phases of operation. Nevertheless, the NH has asked BNFL to review their safety case for the continued operation of Chapelcross power station. This safety case is currently under consideration by the NII.