Pages 143-144 from FCO 66928 - UK Nuclear Policy - 1977

The document discusses decisions and findings related to nuclear power and its implications. It highlights the importance of considering social costs and security implications, particularly the risk of nuclear weapons proliferation. The study group concludes that the world is not running out of energy, as there will be adequate energy supplies in the future, albeit at higher prices. While oil and gas will remain principal energy sources in this century, coal will continue to be competitive, and there may be more uranium available at competitive costs than currently estimated. Additionally, it mentions that solar, geothermal, and eventually fusion energy could provide essentially unlimited energy but at higher costs.

The report compares the economics, human health, and environmental impacts of nuclear and coal power. It suggests that, on average, nuclear power is somewhat cheaper than coal for electricity generation. However, coal will remain competitive in many areas, and uncertainties can affect the economic balance. The cost advantages of nuclear power are not expected to have a significant impact on the overall economy in this century. The report also addresses the comparative health and environmental effects, concluding that nuclear power has fewer adverse effects under normal operations. Waste management, siting, and safety are also discussed.

Regarding proliferation risks, the report acknowledges that nuclear power can complicate proliferation problems if plutonium is introduced in the fuel cycle. It recommends postponing plutonium reprocessing and recycle in current reactors indefinitely, as it has little economic significance. The commercialization of the breeder program should be deferred, and the breeder program should be recast as a long-range insurance program against high future energy costs. The report suggests a reevaluation of waste management programs, expansion of fuel supply facilities under government control, and the need for an international consensus on export policies restricting trade in facilities for plutonium reprocessing and uranium enrichment, with safeguards on all nuclear power facilities and materials.

Overall, the document emphasizes the need to consider various factors such as economics, health, environment, and proliferation risks when making decisions about nuclear power development and utilization.