Press Release

Lord O’Neill new chairman of Nuclear Industry Association

13/06/07 

THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (NIA) today announced Lord O’Neill of Clackmannan has been appointed chairman.

Lord O’Neill takes over from Bill Bryce of Doosan Babcock who has been interim chairman since the turn of the year.

The veteran Labour MP and member of the Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology said he was relishing the challenge at such a vital time for the UK civil nuclear industry.

“We are at a crucial point for the future of the UK’s energy mix with real and challenging issues over delivering security of supply and a low-carbon future for Britain,” he said.

“I am delighted to be joining the NIA, one of the country’s most effective trade associations, and I am looking forward to helping represent the industry and its 40,000 workers in the UK.”

Keith Parker, NIA chief executive said he was delighted Lord O’Neill was joining.

 “The UK nuclear industry is higher profile than ever before, with decommissioning and the possibility of new nuclear power stations posing both opportunities and challenges. Martin has a wealth of experience and I believe there is no one better positioned to lead the industry at such an important time.”

“With Martin as chairman, the NIA can continue to represent the industry effectively – ensuring our voice is heard at the highest levels and that nuclear’s crucial role of providing low-carbon, secure and stably priced power is recognised.”

He also took the opportunity to thank Bill Bryce for his work as interim chair.

“Bill stepped in as interim chair and has done a terrific job. The NIA and the wider membership are grateful for his commitment throughout this time.”

Lord O’Neill has been a member of the upper house since 2005 and currently sits on the Select Committee for Science and Technology and is vice-chair of the All Party Group on Energy Studies. Prior to that, he was a Labour MP from 1979 – 2005. During this time, he chaired the Trade and Industry Select Committee for 10 years from 1995 and was a member of the Liaison Committee from 1997 – 2005.

Lord O’Neill was educated at the Heriot-Watt University and Moray House College, Edinburgh. He is married with two sons.