Birchwood Park occupier, United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) recently welcomed the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Nuclear Minister Lord Hunt to its Preston laboratory, underscoring the strengthening relationship between government and the UK’s lead civil national laboratory for nuclear fission.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband toured the facility on Thursday 6 February, following a visit by Nuclear Minister Lord Hunt on 30 January.
During their visit, the Prime Minister and Energy Secretary engaged with UKNNL’s scientific teams and viewed cutting-edge research facilities. A highlight was an interactive Q&A session where staff shared insights into their work advancing nuclear technology and innovation.
Speaking to UKNNL staff, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:
“I got a real sense just talking to you this morning of the importance of the work that youre doing. Critical obviously in terms of fuel, but also medicines, what you’re doing on cancer, and from you a real sense of pride that you’re working not just in the business, in the sector, but actually doing something incredibly important for the country and as we go towards clean power you’re going to be more and more important.”
“It’s fantastic to have that uplifting sense of purpose and pride that you have, and you should, because you’re doing a really brilliant job on behalf of your country.”
Watch the Prime Minister and Energy Secretary’s Q&A with UKNNL staff below:
The visit coincided with the government’s announcement of plans to advance the development of nuclear power across England and Wales, particularly by building more Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This will help the UK progress towards its mission to become a clean energy superpower, which UKNNL’s work is critical to achieving.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:
“Build, build, build – that is what Britain’s clean energy mission is all about.
“The British people have been left vulnerable to global energy markets for too long – and the only way out is to build our way to a new era of clean electricity.
“Nuclear power creating thousands of skilled jobs. That is what this government will deliver.”
The timing of these visits was particularly significant, coming just before National Apprenticeship Week. During his recent visit, Lord Hunt met with UKNNL apprentices who are developing the skills needed to drive the future of Britain’s nuclear industry. These young professionals are part of UKNNL’s commitment to building the next generation of nuclear experts, combining hands-on experience with expert mentorship.
Nuclear Minister Lord Hunt said:
“It was a pleasure to visit the UK National Nuclear Laboratory and meet the people at the forefront of developing new cutting-edge nuclear technology that will help the UK become a clean energy superpower.
“The technology I was shown will not only help fuel our nuclear reactors of the future more efficiently but will do so more safely and with less impact on the environment – demonstrating the world leading capabilities of the UK’s civil nuclear R&D programme.”
A renewed focus on nuclear development, coupled with the strategic review of UKNNL’s role that brought it closer to government, is an important milestone in the UK nuclear industry and positions UKNNL at the forefront of nuclear innovation and delivery. This strengthened partnership between UKNNL and government underscores the critical role nuclear power will play in achieving net zero targets while delivering cleaner, more affordable energy for British households.
UKNNL Chief Executive Paul Howarth said:
“I was delighted to welcome the Prime Minister, Secretary of State and Minister to our Preston laboratory to show them first-hand how we’re delivering nuclear science to benefit society.
“This new relationship with government marks a defining moment for UKNNL and the UK’s nuclear industry. We’re uniquely positioned to support the government’s ambitious plans for nuclear power and to develop the skills and capabilities required to take the sector to the next level.
“Our world-class scientists, engineers and ambitious apprentices are delivering the innovations that will help make Britain a clean energy superpower. The strengthened partnership between UKNNL and government ensures we can maximise our contribution to this vital mission.”