HC Deb 06 January 2003 vol 397 cc44-5W
Mr. Breed

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the nuclear refit complex at Devonport has received its certification for the Nuclear Installation Inspectorate. [86710]

Mr. Ingram

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 31 January 2002,official Report, column 499W. With such large and complex nuclear facilities, there is no requirement for an overall approval. However, safety is paramount and no individual facility will be used without the appropriate regulatory approval.

Since January 2002, approval has been given for the use of 9 Dock for the refit of HMS Vanguard; 14 Dock for the de-fuel of HMS Valiant; the Low Level Refuelling Facility for the storage of new nuclear fuel; and the rail link for the movement of nuclear fuel within the licensed site.