In January, the government said it would put 140 tonnes of the hazardous material, currently stored at Sellafield in Cumbria, “beyond reach”, making it ready for permanent disposal underground.
The Cumbrian site is said to have one of the world’s largest stockpiles of plutonium and the government has plans to make it safe, before burying it in the ground.
GMB Union met Lord Hunt – a minister in the department for energy security and net zero – who is calling for his department to explore its potential role in the UK’s energy future.
‘National asset, not a liability’
Dan Gow, GMB Senior Organiser, said: “Sellafield workers keep this country safe and deserve better than broken promises and short-sighted policies.
“Plutonium is a national asset, not a liability. Any decision about Sellafield must involve genuine consultation with workers.
“Time and again, promises of engagement have not been kept and that has eroded trust. West Cumbria has carried the burden of hosting Sellafield for decades, and its people deserve investment, job security and a clear long-term vision for the site.
“The government must listen to the workforce, invest in the region and ensure safety and job security are non-negotiable.”
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