Growing support for nuclear industry

The nuclear industry has reported increasing support from the public for the building of new nuclear power stations.

A survey of 2,000 people for the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) found that 45% backed replacing existing power plants with nuclear sites, with 20% against.

Support has grown by 10% in the past decade, the NIA reported at a conference in London.

Around two thirds of those in favour of nuclear said it would ensure the UK was more self-sufficient and reduce reliance on gas and coal.

NIA chief executive Keith Parker said:

“The UK is on the cusp of a major programme of nuclear new build and the industry has to make sure that people trust and understand the sector. The UK is in the unique position of having cross-party support for building new nuclear power stations to replace current plants which are due to retire, as well as strong public support.

“We often talk about the positive impact building new nuclear capacity will have on jobs and businesses, but if we don’t build new nuclear power there will be a much bigger issue.

“The country will lose almost a fifth of its generating capacity, CO2 emissions will rise, and the country would become more dependent on imported energy, something which concerns a large number of people.

“Furthermore, the results are clear that industry and Government need to engage openly and build greater understanding about what radioactive waste is.”