Capenhurst Facility: High-assay Low-enriched Uranium

Earl Russell Excerpts

Wednesday 11th November 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Curran (Lab)]

I have been assured that it will not create any delays. I will make sure that I answer the specifics of that and perhaps write to the noble Lord to make sure that I give him that assurance. As I stand here, my understanding is that I can categorically give that assurance.

[Earl Russell (LD)]

My Lords, we strongly support this programme, and recognise that it is an important part of increasing our resilience and making sure that we are not still dependent on the Russian nuclear fuel cycle. Can the Minister confirm when start-up is likely to happen? How are the Government working with our international partners on these matters, particularly given that America is also a major supplier of this type of fuel?

[Baroness Curran (Lab)]

We do believe that we are on track for a start-up in 2031, and of course we work with international partners. The UK is working closely with European partners to develop a secure and resilient supply, which will play an important role in also producing medical radioisotopes. We work closely with the G7 to remain close partners in discussions on how we build supply chains free of Russian influence. I am sure noble Lords will be aware that the UK has already implemented a direct ban on Russian uranium, in May 2026. This also restricts UK persons or entities from facilitating Russian uranium supply to third countries. We have a close working partnership with the United States on nuclear policy. I attended the G20 Ministers’ meeting, and in that dimension, there was good co-operation.