In August NGOs met members of the Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce for a robust discussion about their work and interim report. The pdf below is a substantive submission to the Taskforce from members of the ONR’s and DESNZ’s Nuclear NGO Forums.

Evidence to Nuclear Regulatory Task Force

Dear Secretary of State,

We are writing to express concern that the government may reduce its stake in Sizewell C to just under 50%. This possibility is reported by The Financial Times, [1] which speculates that HMG’s stake could be reduced to 47.5% if Brookfield takes a 25% share of Sizewell C, Centrica takes 15% and EDF 12.5%.

As you will no doubt appreciate, Stop Sizewell C remains resolutely opposed to Sizewell C. However, if the project goes ahead, we strongly feel there will be more public accountability if the government retains a majority share during construction. Given the likelihood of delays and overspends, the huge amount of taxpayers’ money already spent and the fact that households will pay out during construction, the prospect that private investors – who we understand are being offered very generous terms – could outvote the government is deeply concerning.