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Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 9 June 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 June 2005. It was answered by Malcolm Wicks (Labour) on Monday, 4 July 2005 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor Nuclear Power Stations

Question
(4) what implications the risk of advanced gas-cooled reactor nuclear power stations developing cracks in their graphite cores will have on (a) their current operational life, (b) the operational life of plants using similar systems and (c) Government policy relating to the possible construction of new nuclear power stations; and if he will make a statement.
Answer

Technical issues relating to the graphite cores of advanced gas-cooled reactor power stations are complex technical matters for British Energy and the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate. Therefore, I have asked the Chief Inspector of Nuclear Installations to write to the hon. Member. The Government's position on new nuclear power stations remains the same as stated in the 2003 White Paper—we are keeping the option of new build open. Before any decision were taken to proceed with the building of new nuclear power stations there would need to be the fullest public consultation and the publication of a further White Paper setting out our proposals.The ‘West Midlands Regional Energy Strategy' published in November 2004 by GOWM, The West Midlands Regional Assembly and Advantage West Midlands, also recognises the need for the increased use of renewable energy resources as one of its four key objectives and sets out four priorities under this banner along with identifying those organisations with a lead responsibility and milestones.The Regional Planning Guidance for the West Midlands published in June 2004 by the GOWM includes a chapter on Energy Policies which includes renewable energy, base lining its use in the region at 0.1 per cent. in 2000, identifying the potential to increase this to at least 15 per cent. and encouraging local authorities to encourage renewable energy proposals in their development plans. This includes location guidance and the environmental impact of its generation.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
436 c47W; 4484
Session
2005-06
Subjects
Advanced gas-cooled reactors