Survey shows backing for nuclear - but public are confused on key messages

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SOME 65% OF THE BRITISH PUBLIC say nuclear power should form part of a balanced energy mix – but support may have levelled-out and some say they are confused on the issue. In a nationally representative survey carried-out by Ipsos MORI in November, members of the public were questioned about their attitudes to energy and their concerns for the environment. Despite the government taking a preliminary view in favour of nuclear, the poll results show a tailing-off of previous increases in support – with less encouraging news when it comes to women’s attitudes to nuclear. There is also evidence that opposition to nuclear is strongest in Scotland and Wales. The headline figure shows 65% agreed that Britain needs a mix of energy sources to ensure a reliable supply of electricity, including nuclear power and renewable energy sources. But this is somewhat down on last year’s figure with more undecided and perhaps growing confusion. It also contrasts with the NIA’s September MP’s poll which saw parliamentary support for nuclear rocketing to the highest levels for years. The survey also focused on environmental concerns. Climate change and air pollution came out as by far the public’s biggest environmental concerns (at 26% and 24% respectively), while in comparison concern on nuclear waste stands at 5%. And although the survey says public familiarity with nuclear issues is increasing, some 68% of the public claim to know “just a little” or “almost nothing” about the nuclear industry. Other interesting findings include: The top two benefits of nuclear identified by the public were once again security of supply and combating climate changeby producing little carbon dioxide Interestingly nuclear’s competitive costs is seen as increasingly important positive factor Disposal of waste is still top of the disadvantages of nuclear, along with concerns about radiation and contamination Keith Parker, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, speaking on the eve of Energy Choices 07, a one-day conference focusing on public perception issues, said the findings were a “reality check” for the industry. “Following on from the hugely positive findings of the MPs survey in September this demonstrates the industry has work to do on its key messages and its target audience.” “It is good to see a large majority of people aware of the discussion about nuclear and supporting it as part of a mix – but there are stark warnings here that as an industry we need to do more in promoting a greater understanding of ourt industry.”

 

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