Chapter 37

Cross-Departmental Review of nuclear safety in the Former Soviet Union (FSU)

Scope

The cross departmental review of nuclear problems in the Former Soviet Union (FSU) examined the nuclear problems faced by FSU states, and the priorities of both the states themselves and aid donors in efforts to tackle them. Against this background it assessed how best the UK could contribute to international efforts to address the FSU's nuclear problems and to deliver that assistance in a focused and effective manner.

Background

37.1 The countries of the Former Soviet Union (FSU) face enormous nuclear problems. These are amongst the most important challenges facing the international community, and the environmental, security and proliferation threats they pose do not respect international boundaries. These issues can only be properly addressed by the international community working together.

Outcomes

37.2 As a result of this cross-departmental review, a new pooled budget worth a total of more than £80 million over three years will be established within DTI's programme. The UK is already playing its part in addressing these problems, but the new pooled budget will enable the UK to contribute in a more joined up and effective way. This new programme will enable the UK to participate in international efforts to rebuild the Chernobyl shelter; improve operational safety of nuclear plant, regulatory systems and nuclear safety cultures across the FSU; de-fuel disused submarines in North West Russia; deal with surplus Russian weapons grade plutonium; retrain and generate employment opportunities for Russian nuclear weapons scientists; and improve security, materials accountancy, and international verification arrangements at FSU nuclear sites.

37.3 This new budget is specifically dedicated to assistance with the FSU's nuclear problems. DTI will have responsibility for ensuring that this money is spent properly, and for day to day management of the new programme. But to ensure a focused approach overall priorities for the programme will be set on the advice of an interdepartmental committee.

Spending plans

37.4 Annual provision for assistance with the FSU's nuclear problems will be trebled in 2001-2002 and more than quadrupled by 2003-2004. Details are set out in Table 37.1.

Table 37.1: Key figures

£ million
	2000-01	2001-02	2002-03	2003-04
FSU Nuclear Safety Fund	8*	24	27	33

*Spending on existing programmes by DTI, MOD, FCO, DFID and DETR that will be subsumed within the new pooled fund from 2001-02.

37.5 The cross-departmental review also highlighted the problems FSU states face in dealing with chemical and biological weapons stocks and facilities and an additional £4 million per year has been allocated to the MOD's budget to help deal with these problems.