Nuclear Power: Regulation
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the press release entitled US-UK pact will boost advances in drug discovery, create tens of thousands of jobs and transform lives, published on 16 September 2025, which regulations he plans to (a) change and (b) repeal under the civil nuclear deal.
Answered by Michael Shanks
The civil nuclear deal referenced in the press release of 16 September 2025 forms part of a broader strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and the United States, aimed at accelerating innovation and infrastructure delivery across key sectors, including clean energy. The significant time savings referenced in the deal will be achieved by our regulators working in partnership with their US counterparts to align licensing processes and share technical analysis, without the need for any changes to regulation. It will enable British families to benefit from cleaner, more reliable energy and supporting the creation of high-quality jobs.
In addition, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) & Ministry of Defence (MoD) has commissioned the Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce to examine the regulatory framework governing civil nuclear development. The Taskforce is considering a range of options to streamline regulation, whilst maintaining the UK’s high standards of nuclear safety, security and environmental protection.
The Taskforce’s final report has not yet been published. It would therefore be premature to confirm which specific regulations may be subject to change or repeal. Any proposals will be set out in full in the final report and in the government’s response.
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