Dr. Jenifer Baxter, Head of Energy and
Environment at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said in
response to the BEIS report “Leaving the EU: implications for the
civil nuclear sector”:
"Forging a close alignment with Euratom is the ideal
scenario for the UK nuclear industry. The UK is faced with
developing new legislation and regulations to ensure we meet our
international responsibilities. In addition to this, new trade
agreements and solutions for nuclear worker movements need to
found. This is a process that will require the whole UK civil
nuclear sector to support in order to be
successful.
“With the recent publication of the nuclear sector
plan and funding allocated for further R&D in various parts
of the nuclear sector, the government have made it clear that
they expect nuclear to be a key part of our electricity
future.
"We have recommend a 'Nuclear Pathway' in
our latest
report which outlines certain objectives to achieve
this, such as committing to replace old nuclear with new nuclear
by 2030, developing clear targets and plans for future baseload
capacity from nuclear, having a fleet of affordable Small Modular
Reactors generating by 2040 and developing Generation IV and
Fusion plants for beyond 2050.
"In addition to this, access to specialists with
highly skilled nuclear construction skills will help fulfil the
government's overarching objectives to providing low carbon power
and reducing the UK's reliance on coal and gas. This is why we
believe there is such a strong case for reviewing the Home Office
Shortage Occupation List, to ensure the nuclear industry
continues to have access to these talented
individuals."
