"We have a preliminary view that nuclear should be able to play a part in providing the energy that we need to keep the lights on and help cut carbon emissions. But it is important that we know what the public thinks before we take this important decision"
John Hutton-Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise
Over half (51%) of those who took part in stakeholder events taking place last Saturday were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with the Government's proposal to manage new nuclear waste in the same manner as legacy waste (geological storage).
Almost one quarter (24%) were satisfied or very satisfied. There was considered to be a need for more detailed information both about the implications of nuclear waste and arrangements to manage it.
The majority of participants, took the issue of nuclear waste very seriously; 90% were either concerned or very concerned about the creation of new nuclear waste, suggesting that the Government has an uphill struggle to establish a ‘secure’ national energy infrastructure as nuclear waste storage is key.
Participants were concerned about dangers associated with nuclear waste and wanted Government reassurance about the handling and disposal with minimum risk.
Almost 1,000 people told ministers their views about the future of nuclear power in the UK at last Saturday's 'Talking Energy' events held in Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Exeter, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Newcastle and Norwich. This is part of the consultation process associated with the document 'The Future of Nuclear Power' which was issued by Government in May this year.
John Hutton-Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise
Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise, John Hutton said:
'Saturday was a great opportunity to hear first hand what the public think about the crucial issue (nuclear energy).
'We must secure our energy supplies for the future. Our livelihoods and the future health of the planet depend on us getting this right. It is absolutely in the national interest that we make a decision and urgently.
'We have a preliminary view that nuclear should be able to play a part in providing the energy that we need to keep the lights on and help cut carbon emissions. But it is important that we know what the public thinks before we take this important decision.'
A summary report of key findings is available on the consultation website: http://www.direct.gov.uk/nuclearpower2007 and the full report and analysis will be available next month.