Pages 47-48 from FCO 66910 - Nuclear Suppliers Group; Policy 1977

The document is a confidential communication from the Department of Energy regarding international rules for the return of separated plutonium to countries that have sent irradiated fuel for reprocessing. The speech given at the British Nuclear Energy Society Dinner emphasizes the need for establishing a system of international rules in this regard. The UK has communicated its views to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Secretariat for their study on the subject. The Department agrees that further attention should be given to the issue, considering the concerns expressed by the United States, which could negatively impact the UK's nuclear industry. The document mentions US proposals for the international transfer of spent fuel and the challenges faced by the UK in obtaining authorization for foreign fuel reprocessing. While cooperating with the IAEA study, the UK acknowledges its large quantity of plutonium and the need to fulfill export obligations. There are concerns about administrative practices and fulfilling intergovernmental obligations, with a specific mention of a failure to notify other members of the Zangger Committee about plutonium exports to Japan. The document suggests examining procedures to ensure compliance and exploring separate licensing for plutonium exports. The burden on relevant departments should also be considered. The communication concludes with a recommendation to nominate a staff member to discuss the arrangements and potential changes with the Department and the FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office). Acceptable proposals could then be examined by the IWUP Working Group on Non-Proliferation. The document includes the names of individuals from various organizations involved in the discussion.