February 17, 2012

expert reaction to nuclear energy agreement between UK and France

The SMC collected comments in response to news that the UK and France signed a joint declaration that signalled a shared commitment to civil nuclear power, paving the way for new nuclear power plants in the UK.

Professor Andrew Sherry, Director of the Dalton Nuclear Institute at The University of Manchester, said:

“We welcome today’s announcement of closer cooperation between the UK and France in the development of civil nuclear energy. This further strengthens the UK commitment to establish a low carbon electricity mix that includes nuclear power as one important component. The announcement builds momentum in the development of nuclear skills and business that will see a real contribution to economic growth, through the manufacture of nuclear components, alongside nuclear education and research. The academic sector and industry are already collaborating to develop the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers.

“The Dalton Nuclear Institute at The University of Manchester is committed to playing its part in this agenda. As part of the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre alongside Sheffield University, Manchester is working closely with Areva and Rolls-Royce to drive forward manufacturing innovation for new nuclear build. This includes advanced testing in nuclear environments to ensure the longevity of new nuclear components. The opening of Manchester’s new Dalton Cumbrian Facility also provides opportunities for closer collaboration with French partners in radiation science.”