British Energy
Letters: The comments by Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP illustrate the myopia that often characterises debate over nuclear energy. Shutdowns, whether for maintenance or for cautionary safety inspections and investigations, are routine in any power generation system, and in a highly technical system such as nuclear are necessary and to be applauded rather than derided.
Scotsman 18th April 2008 more >>
Chernobyl
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is dropping plans to pay dividends to its 60-odd shareholder governments and will instead put the money to securing the safety of the stricken Chernobyl nuclear plant.
FT 17th April 2008 more >>
Sellafield
A nuclear worker spent more than 24 hours in hospital after an accident at the Sellafield complex in Cumbria. An investigation is under way into how the man, who has not been named, was injured while working in the Thorp facility. The worker, who was initially treated by an on-site emergency team, became trapped between a fuel transport cylinder and a handrail. Officials stressed the incident did not involve any nuclear material.
BBC 17th April 2008 more >>
Most of the contractors bidding for the Sellafield contract arrived at the site last week by car. Bechtel arrived by helicopter.
Telegraph 18th April 2008 (not on web)
Iran
The leaders of the United States and Britain on Thursday pledged a united effort to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, possibly by expanding sanctions against Tehran.
Reuters 17th April 2008 more >>
Iran’s ebullient president, enjoys a boast. He particularly likes to crow on what he calls national nuclear day: the anniversary of the first production two years ago of low-enriched uranium to fuel yet-to-be-built civilian nuclear reactors. (That is Iran’s description; others suspect weapons intent.)
Economist 17th April 2008 more >>
Israeli PM believes international community’s efforts in preventing Iran from becoming nuclear country will succeed.
Middle East Online 17th April 2008 more >>
Radiation and Health
20th Low Level Radiation and Health Conference, Ambleside, June 6th & 7th
