Visiting the National Nuclear Laboratory

On Thursday I was in Preston visiting the National Nuclear Laboratory which is an active lab capable of handling uranium up to production scale with engineering facilities for large scale testing.

It was great to have the opportunity to see NNL’s world-leading research and development facilities and to meet their talented scientists, engineers and apprentices. I was delighted with the level of innovation; from developing safer, more resilient fuel rods to designing new ways to decommission nuclear waste, the NNL is a hugely important contribution to UK plc and will ensure the UK remains a nuclear world leader in global research and development into the future.

I also got the chance to hold a real uranium pellet manufactured by the NNL… sadly they wouldn’t let me keep it!

Whilst in the North West, I also visited Warrington to see the new University Technical College that is due to open in September and will specialise in energy and engineering courses for 14-19 year olds. As a huge supporter of the fantastic work done by our own Silverstone UTC in South Northamptonshire, I was really pleased to see how the Warrington site will support local students into highly skilled jobs and apprenticeships with the key nuclear employers in the region.

I also met with the North West Energy Task Force for a roundtable meeting before ending the day at the North West Lancashire Chamber of Commerce Centenary Business Dinner where I delivered the keynote address.

Thank you to everyone for welcoming me on my visits!