Wednesday 3 May 2017

The House of Lords Science and Technology Select Committee has published its findings following its recent inquiry into “Priorities for Nuclear Research and Technologies”. The scope of the Inquiry included questions around the role and governance of the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL). NNL gave written evidence to the Inquiry and our Chief Executive, Paul Howarth, gave evidence in person on 7 March.

NNL welcomes publication of today’s report, and we are pleased to note that the Committee “…heard considerable praise for the staff and work of the NNL”.

We thank all those who took the time and trouble to give evidence to the Committee regarding their thoughts on the UK’s nuclear R&D sector – and of the National Nuclear Laboratory in particular. We also thank the Committee for their detailed and careful scrutiny of these important questions and for their efforts to ensure timely publication of their findings and recommendations.

We agree with the Committee’s conclusion that “…we have reached a critical moment for the future of the United Kingdom as a serious nuclear nation.”  It is important the nation is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities offered.

We now look forward to discussing with Government how they may wish to take forward the recommendations within the report.