Professor William Reville:

This is a personal opinion because the Radiological Protection Institute has no official position either for or against nuclear energy. Its brief is simply the protection of the public and professionals against the hazards of ionising radiation, whether that comes from a nuclear source or a non-nuclear source. My personal opinion is that a nuclear station would be of great benefit to the country.

In view of the climate change problem, the nuclear industry would be a great asset. It does not emit carbon dioxide warming gas and it is very well understood. There have been some accidents and while the modern design of the nuclear plant is not entirely foolproof, it is close to it. The hazards from accidents associated with the modern nuclear plant are extremely low now. I agree there are still some problems with the long-term storage of waste, but there are solutions to that as well. I have no interest in the nuclear industry per se, but in view of the climate change problem, it is a way to generate electricity and it is very efficient compared with the renewables and we understand the technology 100%. It is extremely well understood. We could push a button and get all our electricity from nuclear energy without too many problems and that source does not emit warming gases.