Brexit & civil nuclear - BEIS Select Committee Chair calls for Government clarity on Euratom and key civil nuclear issues

Rachel Reeves MP, Chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee has written to Richard Harrington MP, Minister for Business and Industry, to call for clarity on a series of issues relating to the UK’s ongoing relationship with the EU and Euratom and the Government’s plans for civil nuclear in the event of a ‘no deal’ scenario.  

Rachel Reeves MP, Chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee said: “There are some encouraging indications of progress on civil nuclear issues such as nuclear safeguards and trading arrangements. Nevertheless, serious concerns persist, particularly in the event of a ‘no deal’ scenario.

“In the event of no deal and no transition period, the ongoing operation of the UK’s nuclear power stations could be put at risk. The Government needs to spell out what it is doing to ensure that nuclear power stations continue to function from 29 March 2019 and whether it will seek a separate deal with Euratom in these circumstances. The Government also needs to be clearer about its plans to facilitate the building of construction of major facilities such as Hinkley Point C if restrictions on migrant labour are introduced in the future.

“The UK plays an important role in nuclear research. Given the UK’s proud history of innovation, it’s important the Government sets out its plans to make up for reduced access to EU R&D funding for future innovation projects beyond 2020.” 

In December 2017, the Committee published its report following its inquiry “Brexit and its implications for the civil nuclear sector. The Committee’s report examined the UK’s current relationship with Euratom, the role of nuclear safeguards in trade and research, the establishment of a new UK regime, the importance of nuclear co-operation agreements in trading nuclear materials, and the impact of exit on R&D and skills.