Prime Minister Boris Johnson chose the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) at Culham Science Centre, Oxfordshire to make his first science announcement, unveiling plans to develop a new fast-track visa route for the brightest and best scientists to continue to move to the UK after Brexit.
The Prime Minister was shown how the UKAEA are harnessing the huge potential of nuclear fusion as a low-carbon energy source, including the new MAST Upgrade fusion experiment, which is reconsidering a compact design for future fusion power stations.
Talking to some of the UKAEA’s apprentices, he also discussed plans for a new £12 million apprentice training centre, which will be opening in September at Culham. Whilst there, Boris Johnson also visited the UKAEA’s robotics centre, RACE, to witness how the most recent research is encouraging the UK industry to compete in the fast-growing robotics sector.
Speaking at the venue, Boris Johnson said “It was fantastic to visit Culham Science Centre today and meet the men and women we are helping to invent a sustainable fusion reactor. The UK is leading the world in this sector, thanks in significant part to the work of the UK Atomic Energy Authority. I’m confident that, with the help of the immigration reforms I have announced today, we will continue to do so for many years to come.”
Rob Buckingham, RACE Director said “Talking to the PM today I could see he’s an enthusiast for science. He wants the UK to be bold – and what could be bolder than taking on the challenge of delivering fusion to address climate change.”
Paul Britton, CEO Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce comments “Wonderful to hear of the Prime Minister’s recent visit to the Culham Centre and the Government’s continued support for UKAEA’s world-leading research. We are proud that the centre, based in the heart of the Thames Valley, is at the forefront of the sector positioning the UK as a leader in sustainable nuclear energy.”
