§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what proposals are in hand to outsource the operational responsibility for the management and supervision of pipelines or outfalls that are or have been used for the disposal of nuclear waste from AEA sites in Dorset.
§ Mr. Charles WardleResponsibility for this activity currently rests with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority Government division's radioactive waste services. Government division announced in September that it intends to contractorise the operation as part of its strategy for creating a more competitive market in decommissioning and waste management services. It will continue, however, to determine the programme of work and ensure that the operations are carried out consistent with safety and environmental requirements. Government division is currently considering options for taking forward the process of contractorisation in consultation with employee representatives.