WARRINGTON-BASED energy group BNFL will discover today the extent to which the government plans to reinvest into nuclear energy. Debate over the future of nuclear power will be reignited when the Government launches a drive to shape the future direction of the country's energy policy, with nuclear fuel expected to play a major part in its plans. The plans, to be outlined in today's discussion paper, represent a major change in fortune for BNFL, which, in recent years, had been struggling to find a new direction. Trade and Industry Secretary Alan Johnson will launch a consultation document seeking views from industry, pressure groups and members of the public on which forms of energy should be promoted. The UK's energy supply has taken on a renewed sense of urgency after recent rises in gas prices and the country's increasing reliance on gas from overseas sources. Fears have also been expressed over the security of energy supplies, forcing the Government to deny worries of power blackouts this winter. Industry has been pressing the Government to speed up decisions on building new nuclear power stations warning that the country's competitiveness will be threatened if energy becomes more expensive and less reliable. But green campaigners will argue that a new generation of nuclear power plants will not be needed because of sustainable alternatives available. Tony Juniper, executive director of Friends of the Earth, said: "The Government must set us on the path to a clean, safe and sustainable future and turn its back once and for all on the failed, dangerous and expensive experiment of nuclear power." But the Engineering Employers Federation, which represents thousands of companies, urged the Government to move as quickly as possible to set out a balanced, long-term energy strategy including all options. Director General Martin Temple said: "Energy is now right at the top of the agenda and there is no time to lose in putting in place a long-term strategy that will provide a competitive, reliable and secure supply and generate significant reduction in emissions. billgleeson@dailypost.co.uk | 
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