the myths about nuclear power.
of a major review of energy policy.
Socialist Environment Resources Association WHAT are the myths about nuclear power?
Firstly WC are told that energy is, or will be, in very short supply - 2101 210 925 will run out by the end of the century, and that energy demand is rising all the time.
So the conclusion we have to draw from this is that we will need more energy in the future, and this demand can only be met by a large nuclear power programme.
This, of course, is all right, we are told, as nuclear power is cheap, safe, and creates jobs either directly through building and running plants or indirectly by ensuring the energy for growth.
These arguments are raised with a single voice by those who will make the profits and by trade union leaders. But what is the truth?
We have one of the most Wasterl energy systems Europe. Wasteful because of competition between different and because of the technology used to supply industry and homes with the energy they need.
As for rising demand -recent surveys show that we WHILE the anti-nuclear movement prepares to do will need no more energy in the and year 2020 than we do now and have improved living standards with a six-fold growth in the economy.
Nuclear power is not cheap it's more expensive than coal.
It's debatable whether can ever be made safe — and if it isn't safe then it will be a lot TOIC CAOCHSIYC And finally, far creating jobs, BEne programme will entail a net loss of jobs and a weakening of working class organisation in those that remain.
Safety and COST separate things. the are fixed with an eye on the cost and the political acceptability of the risk that remains.
The full effects of exposure to radiation will not show up for 40-50 years experts can't agree on what are "safe' levels.
Trade union leaders get up at conferences and say there are no problems while their own unions are pressing claims on behalf of widows of their members.
The Scottish Board's accounts show nuclear power is more costy than electricity generated from the usual oil or coal, especially when the cost of decommisLondon N1 2XP. sioning reactors after their 25 years of useful life is added. though through kidden sun cost sidies. For nuclear mation she the services from stations receive services the completely free of charge.
Then there are social and political costs to be included. present There is a continuing infringement of trade with increased vetting, and aren't rounds the industry. SCCICCY 'Safe' levels This connects again with the question of safety trade union guarantee safe conditions, or fight for them, while they are Seed by the Official Secrets One tutor on a TUC Health and Safety censured for going outside the syllabus when he revealed this fact.
The provisions of the Health Electricity and Safety Act that workplaces relevant information to satety reps -raised by the Windscale inquiry. NO M choose.
LiTe "EVENTS,
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battle with the bulldozers at Torness on 6 May, the trade union movement is just beginning to question On 25 April the Scottish TUC will debate the idea