TNAG-1505-FCO40-2063-Guangdong-nuclear-power-station-project-at-Daya-Bay-safety-c-1986 — Page 11

6

many

and

nuclear

Chinese leaders

had experts

travelled

extensively to take a close look at nuclear power plants all over the world. The TMI accident proved that the PWR design was safe

and could be used because

used because the PWR containment could stand even

the worst accident involving core melt-down without contaminating the environment. The construction, operation and management of the Daya Bay would be done to meet international safety and quality standards.

15.

The Chinese authorities believed that both the TMI

accident and the Chernobyl accident occurred very much as a result of human error. Therefore they would select

select the best-

qualified people to work at

at the Daya Bay, i.e.

i.e. those who were

experienced individuals, equipped with the right technical expertise and who had a strong sense of responsibility. Personnel were being sent abroad for training. Government and university research institutes would provide support for the training of operators and inspectors.

16.

In explaining China's decision

to go ahead with the

project, Mr LI Peng said the Chinese Government had reached agreement with the British and French Governments to support the construction of the Daya Bay plant. Many British, French and Chinese firms were involved in this project, which was one of the largest joint ventures since China adopted the open-door policy to the rest of the world. He stressed that China attached great importance to keeping its word and abiding by the contracts. The project would play a positive role in developing Guangdong's energy supplies because there was a great demand for electric

in power this part of China, yet it was uneconomical to

to bring

coal from northern China in view of the distance and the overloaded capacity of railway transport. Besides, the project would also help maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.