HC Deb 06 December 1993 vol 234 cc36-7W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the President of the Board of Trade how many nuclear reactors in the United Kingdom have parts which contain the nickel-based alloy, Inconel 600; what assessment his Department has made as to its safety; what representations he has received; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Eggar

I understand that Inconel 600 is used chiefly in Sizewell B, but the material is also found in minor components in certain other nuclear stations. Any implications for such plant arising from the use of a material are taken into account by the Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate—NII. The performance of materials—such as Inconel 600—is an integral part of the safety case assessment which is carried out before reactors are started up and which continues throughout their operation. Such safety cases are reviewed periodically and amended as necessary in light of new information. For its part, Nuclear Electric is undertaking a programme of inspections at Sizewell B which will ensure early warning of any problems arising from the use of Inconel 600 and enable remedial action to be promptly implemented. Moreover, the NII would not allow any nuclear power station to commence or continue in operation if they were not satisfied that it was safe to do so. I have received two letters from hon. Members forwarding representations from their constituents about this matter.