TNAG-1657-FCO40-2305-Daya-Bay-nuclear-power-station-project-safety-concerns-in-Ho-1987 — Page 56

SUNAEO

BACKGROUND

HKK 166/3

1.

some 50

China's plan to build a nuclear power station at Daya Bay, kilometres from Hong Kong, aroused widespread concern in

Hong Kong about the implications for the territory of a nuclear accident at the station in the light of the Chernobyl incident. Members of Hong Kong's Legislative Council were assured by the Chinese Government in September 1986 that safety and quality given top priority in China's nuclear planning.

2.

1986:

The main contracts for the project were signed in September French organisations are to supply the nuclear technology and expertise (including training of key staff), and GEC is to supply turbines in a

in a contract worth some £250M. Since signature, the Hong Kong media has focussed on the prices of electricity from the station. Some 70%

70% of the power generated at Daya Bay will go to Hong Kong: 25% of the operating company's equity is Hong

Kong-owned.

3.

Publicity over the recent decision to approve the building of the Sizewell "B" power station (which, like Daya Bay will be of the PWR type) has re-kindled concern in Hong Kong over the safety of Daya Bay. Greenpeace is reported to have drafted questions on Daya Bay including question along lines similar to Mr Cook's by Members of Parliament. Mr Cook asked six questions on Bay nuclear power project in December 1986.

for use

the Daya

Hong Kong Department

26 March 1987