The publication reported Mr Hutton as saying that the government is going all out to ensure a major nuclear power revival in the UK. He said that replacing older generation reactors with more powerful ones is a major priority in the government’s bid to cut carbon emissions and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Mr Hutton made it clear that the government would pull out all the stops to maximize nuclear expansion. Replacing the UK’s ageing stock of reactors is seen as vital to achieving the government’s targets on cutting carbon emissions and reducing dependence on imported gas.
Mr Hutton also added that the government could sell its GBP2 billion-plus stake in nuclear power generator British Energy, signaling a willingness to drop its previous commitment and creating a favorable climate for investment. The firm is negotiating with other companies to build new nuclear power plants in the UK, according to the Financial Times.