[en] The author points out the advantages from the point of view of minimising air pollution by nitric oxide of using nuclear generated electricity rather than burning oil, even in diesel-engined district heating stations. (C.J.O.G.)

[en] The management of Bernische Kraftwerke AG organise afternoon meetings for the staff each limited to 70/80 people. Brief details of the information afternoons are given, the main aims of which include updating knowledge on energy policy matters and the need for nuclear power, explaining company policy, improving staff motivation, considering the results of the poll on the standing of BKW with its customers, screening a company film and discussing matters raised by employees. (P.G.R.)

[en] The majority of the population (58%) of the Federal Republic of Germany believe that the problem of radioactive waste storage and treatment should not be exported. (G.T.H.)

[en] Energy is either the basis of, or plays an important role in, a series of research projects in the National Research Programmes (NFP). A brief review is given of the relevant research programmes. Certain projects of NFP 44 - socio-economic research in the energy field - which have a direct impact on the electricity supply industry are outlined in particular. (P.G.R.)

[en] In the report by the Federal Energy Commission (EEK) on the need for nuclear power stations the following aspects play a key role: future economic growth, electrical space heating and oil substitution, decentralised electricity/heat generation and reserve generating capacity and electricity interchange with foreign countries. An examination of these points by the Swiss Electricity Undertakings (VSE) and its views are briefly outlined. (P.G.R.)

[en] The meeting report contains six statements relating to the attitude of the Swiss Engineers to the legal requirements concerning the use of nuclear energy and the protection of the public from radiation. These imply that the present laws make it almost impossible to proceed with nuclear energy development. Although a proposed article has been introduced into the constitution accepting nuclear power development in parallel with conventional sources, the legal framework is inadequate to support this in practice. (G.C.)

[en] The author gives a general review of recent advances in the application of magnetic phenomena in the practice of medicine. The development of X-ray, and then of magnetic resonance tomography is summarised, emphasising the crucial role of the computer in solving the massive mathematical computation problems involved, and the richness of the information revealed by NMR as compared with that provided by X-rays. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and magneto-encephalography are then discussed. (C.J.O.G.)

[en] The results of a poll of 500 people (118 French-speaking Swiss, and 382 German-speaking Swiss) to find out what they think is discharged into the atmosphere by the Goesgen reactor, are discussed. It seems that, in general, the French-speaking Swiss (Romands) think that there is more pollution in the water vapor than do the German-speaking Swiss. (G.T.H.)

[en] A progress report presented in October 1984 by the Refuna technical project manager Karl-Heinz Handl is summarised. Heat supplies to the EIR and SIN Federal Institutes from November 1983 were extended in October 1984 to the first private consumers over 10 Km of newly completed main piping. The central pumping station was placed in service and a second heat exchanger installed at Beznau in October 1984 raises reserve capacity 100%. (P.G.R.)

[en] The article outlines new legislation in Switzerland for the safety and rights of the population and safety during the construction and operation of nuclear power stations. Broadly, it gives rules for operation and disposal of wastes for no more than 25 years. It can be extended, by further legislation. Further legislation is subject to consent by the electors of the commune in which the station is situated. Safety measures proposed have to be made known 6 months before the first voting. Any damage is the responsibility of the station operators and the period of liability is 90 years after an accident. A compensation fund has to be created. Existing stations are covered by this legislation and must take steps to comply within 3 years, or cease activity. (G.V.D.)