Editorial

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Tuesday, 16 October 2007

The nuclear industry is at a turning point… and the thorough and robust period of consultation we are going through now has vitally important consequences for the UK… Not just my words, but also the sentiments of the new Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, John Hutton, whom I’m delighted to say took time from his busy schedule to say a few words at the Nuclear Industry Association’s recent summer reception. The evening was a great success with industry, the media and politicians all present to help welcome me in to my new role as chairman of the association. May I take this opportunity to say how proud I am to take on the role and how I look forward to working closely with many of you in the near future to help take our industry forward in a positive light at such a critical juncture. The drinks reception, held at the Royal Society on a lovely summer evening, was not just a nice social event – it was a timely reminder of the diversity of NIA membership, our key stakeholders and on the breadth of messages we as an industry must communicate in a positive and clear way. As John Hutton said, our industry has a vital role in underpinning the UK’s climate change obligations and the country’s security of supply. But the government, despite taking a preliminary view on nuclear, is determined that the consultation process is fair, open and transparent, and rightly so. Even more reason for us as an industry to transmit clear and unambiguous information so people can have an informed view when having their say on the country’s future energy strategy. It was a delight to meet so many people from across the nuclear industry at the summer event; from companies involved in decommissioning, generating, supply chain, and maybe some who may lead the way with new nuclear build. I would urge you all to use your trade association, which has already done much to get our case across to the general public and politicians. It is vital we all work in a coordinated manner going forward. The NIA is here to help foster your commercial interests, and to assist with input to the consultation process. It’s your trade association and together we are stronger.

 

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