Nuclear energy must power our future

Nuclear energy must power our future

19 Apr 2005

The panel debate the motion: Nuclear energy must power our future. Chaired by Martyn Lewis.

Arguing for the motion are Bruno Comby, Bishop Hugh Montefiore and Lord Parkinson.

Bruno Comby states his belief that there are very good environmental reasons to be in favour of nuclear energy, and argues that Comby says that, while wind energy and solar energy can help, and should be developed, neither come close to the potential of nuclear energy.

Hugh Montefiore says that those who are against nuclear energy are living in a time warp. He addresses the key concerns about nuclear, such as safety and disposal of waste – but he doesn't think we can point to Chernobyl, which was an experiment gone wrong.

Lord Parkinson begins with a critique of the oppositions arguments, particularly the facts that they deployed. He declares that we are light years away from viable forms of renewable energy, with an example being the conventional power stations that have to back-up wind power.

Arguing against the motion are Mycle Schneider, Zac Goldsmith, and Tony Juniper.

Mycle Schneider, having emphasised the importance of factual accuracy in this debate, begins by illustrating some of the key statistics about nuclear energy and its potential development. He mentions the long time-frames that are involved – it takes an extremely long time to build the nuclear reactors as different parts are sourced from around the world.

Zac Goldsmith begins by pointing out the dangers of aeroplane crashes: nuclear plants were not built with terrorism in mind. Given the horrors and risks involved he says you could be forgiven for thinking there must be benefits, and yet in his view there are none.

Tony Juniper claims that 75% of our emissions are not even coming from the electricity sector, so we need to distinguish between energy and climate change. He points to the fact that wind power is already beginning to meet more and more of our energy needs.

First Vote: 258 For, 155 Against, 186 Don't Know

Final Vote: 289 For, 224 Against, 63 Don't Know

The motion is passed by 64 votes.

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