asked the Secretary of State for Energy how far the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate has responsibility for monitoring the execution of obligations entered into by Her Majesty's Government under treaties such as Euratom or the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Agreement.

Within the Health and Safety Executive, the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate (NII) is responsible for ensuring compliance with nuclear health and safety standards at United Kingdom institutions. In carrying out this function the NII adheres to the basic health and safety standards laid down under the Euratom Treaty. There are no provisions in the treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons which come within the ambit of the NII.