§ Mr. ClaphamTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when he last discussed matters with British Energy. [2977]
§ Mr. PageUnder the UK nuclear site licensing regime, nuclear operators must demonstrate the safety of nuclear installations to the satisfaction of the nuclear industry's independent regulator, the Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate. Therefore, while Ministers might discuss, in general terms, safety issues with nuclear licensees such as British Energy, operational safety at nuclear installations is a matter for licencees in consultation with the regulator.
§ Mr. ClaphamTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what guarantees British Energy has given that its proposal to shed jobs over the next three years will not affect safety standards. [2976]
§ Mr. PageFor British Energy, ensuring safety at its nuclear installations is an absolute prerequisite for its future business success. In announcing its proposals to reduce staff numbers as part of its aim of reducing costs and improving the overall efficiency of the company, British Energy made it clear that these staff reductions will in no way compromise the company's commitment to safety. The nuclear industry's independent regulator, the Health and Safety Executive's nuclear installations inspectorate, is being fully consulted on the proposed changes and will need to be satisfied that the proposals remain consistent with arrangements for the management of safety within British Energy.