Politics and Nuclear Power

An examination of the use of civil nuclear power for electricity production which grew out of military research on the bomb, thus creating political controversy. The author aims to use a minimum of technical language to examine the issues of this unfamiliar world of nuclear energy and the debates around it. Particular reference is made to the political and public policy implications. The obvious anxieties are covered such as the fallibility of safety precautions as demonstrated at Chernobyl, and the possible misuse of civil nuclear materials for military purposes. The growing economic significance of nuclear power as a new energy source is highlighted by the strain on conventional sources and the need imposed on the industry to supervise closely its operations. The author tries to give credit to the industry where it is due, but also notes areas where the public should remain vigilant. The aim of this study is to set out the issues objectively and increase understanding of the nuclear energy debates. Terence Price was one of the earliest members of the British atomic energy project and was a delegate to two UN disarmament conferences.