“Leaving the EU: implications for the civil nuclear sector”

Dr. Jenifer Baxter, Head of Energy and Environment, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said in response to the BEIS report:

"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."

Notes to Editors

• For interview requests and queries contact the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Press Office on +44 (0)20 7304 6877 or email media@imeche.org.
• The Institution of Mechanical Engineers which was established in 1847, has some of the world’s greatest engineers in its history books.
• It is one of the fastest growing professional engineering institutions. Headquartered in London, we have operations around the world with over 117,000 members in more than 140 countries working at the heart of the most important and dynamic industries such as the automotive, rail, aerospace, medical, power and construction industries.