Survey shows public support for nuclear power remains unchanged Populus survey – 09.05.11

A poll conducted by independent research agency Populus has shown that public support for nuclear energy has remained unchanged despite the nuclear accident in Japan.

The survey highlighted that;

- More than 8 in 10 people were either fully supportive of nuclear as the best way to tackle climate change or thought it might have a role to play in the UK’s future energy mix.
- Only 16% opposed nuclear under any circumstances
- 42% were in favour of building new power plants
- 31% were against building new power plants.

NIA Chief Executive Keith Parker commented: "It is extremely positive to see that 8 in 10 people were either fully supportive of nuclear as the best way to tackle climate change or thought it might have a role to play in the UK’s future energy mix. This is a reflection of the calm and collected way in which our Government and the British public have reacted to the tragic events in Japan. There is a real recognition here of the important role that nuclear energy plays for us to meet our climate change objectives and deliver a low-carbon, cost effective energy supply."

"The interim report by the Chief Nuclear Inspector, Dr. Mike Weightman, will be published this month and as an industry we will take full account of any lessons that can be learnt from Japan."