Unite, the UK’s leading trade union, representing workers in construction, engineering and energy has welcomed the government’s announcement of a multi-billion investment to build Sizewell C in Suffolk and the go ahead for small and modular reactors (SMRs).
Unite strongly supports the government’s decision to make Rolls Royce the preferred bidder to build the small modular reactors (SMRs).
A properly funded nuclear expansion programme will ensure energy resilience, drive forward industrial growth, and provide high-quality employment opportunities across the country.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: 'This announcement is vital for jobs in construction and the energy sector. Unite has led the campaign for building Sizewell C and the development of SMRs. Workers will be relieved that the investment has finally been secured.
'The Sizewell C and SMR announcements must only be a first step towards serious and sustained investment in UK nuclear power to end the instability in our energy sector. The promise of small modular rectors must be backed alongside investment in fusion, The government also needs commit to building a new nuclear power station at Wylfa.'
Unite will be demanding a commitment from the government that no infrastructure investments will be done on the cheap. We will not accept any attempt to cut costs by undermining pay, conditions, or safety standards. This must be a programme that delivers well-paid, skilled, unionised jobs from day one. Unite is also campaigning for the government to commit to develop a new nuclear power station at Wylfa on Anglesey.
Historically in the UK, major infrastructure construction projects have used exploitative employment models, with substandard wages and precarious contracts. Unite will expect full engagement with unions to ensure that workers’ voices are heard at every stage of this process. That means investment in apprenticeships, training, and the upskilling of the UK workforce to meet the demands of the future energy sector.
Unite’s national officer for construction Jason Poulter added: 'As the major union at the UK’s other nuclear construction site at Hinkley Point, Unite is well placed to ensure that good, unionised jobs are created that pay fair wages and ensure work in good conditions.
'It is essential that we ensure this development at Sizewell benefit workers and communities as well as across UK through skills security, not just shareholders.'
Unite has consistently campaigned to ensure the future of UK energy must be built on a foundation of good jobs, strong protections, and a commitment to a fair deal for workers.
Source: Unite the Union
