11 May (NucNet): The UK’s exit from the European Atomic Energy Community, or Euratom, will be “extremely difficult” to achieve in the two-year Brexit period and a framework is needed for the country to fall back on to ensure nuclear safety and security, the Chatham House think-tank says in a report published on 10 May 2017.
The report says Euratom withdrawal will have a significant impact on the functioning of the UK’s nuclear industry, particularly in respect to nuclear material safeguards, safety, supply, movement across borders and R&D.
The 1957 Euratom Treaty established the European Atomic Energy Community and governs the EU’s nuclear industry.
As a result of Brexit, the UK will no longer be a party to the treaty unless new or transitional arrangements are made before the two-year notification period ends.
Euratom and the Euratom Treaty that governs it were founded to create a market for nuclear power in Europe and to promote development of the nuclear power industry within EU member states.
The Euratom Treaty covers large aspects of nuclear fuel supply in Europe and has other technical and regulatory functions.
The Chatham House report also says Brexit would destabilise the current balance in the EU, resulting in the EU having more anti-nuclear member countries than pro-nuclear ones.
It says that the UK has been an active supporter of nuclear power in the EU during its membership and its exit from the EU will be felt by the other pro-nuclear EU countries.
The report, ‘Staying Connected: Key Elements for UK–EU27 Energy Cooperation After Brexit’, is online: http://bit.ly/2q51PhH
