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It was generally agreed that the Department of Industry should have bilateral discussions with individual companies before reconvening the Group to discuss an appropriate package.
Mr Scott said that he was concerned about the
In his view the NEB possible role for the NEB. were not in a position to be able to contribute.
If however the NEB any practical assistance.
were to be brought in solely as a cosmetic gesture in response to the preferences expressed by Sir Lawrence he thought GEC would have no objection. Mr Lippitt said that he understood this.
Several points were made about the role of the CEGB, including uncertainty over the scope of their involvement and the danger that without their own consultancy facilities, CLP might employ overseas consultants which might be less favourably disposed towards British equipment. Mr Macdonald confirmed that CLP considered CEGB involvement in the project to be a vital part of any UK package. His own impression was however that CLP did not wish to specify the CEGB's role; rather they were simply keen to have a power station which had received CEGB approval. Mr Davidson said that there was a danger that the high standards which the CEGB set might adversely affect the competitive price at which we should be aiming. He confirmed that he had no objection to the use of the CEGB in this project. Mr Bagley thought that the CEGB's involvement would be acceptable as long as their role was defined in consultation with the companies. Mr Lippitt confirmed that this is what was intended. would arrange to meet the CEGB as soon as possible, and would emphasise that it was important to help keep costs to a minimum through avoiding duplication of design work by companies and by adopting a flexible attitude towards standards.
He
IC2
24 June 1977
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