Other UK News In Brief

Nuclear Safety 'Number One Priority'

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Chris Huhne has set out further detail on the UK Chief Nuclear Inspector’s report into the implications of events at Japanese nuclear reactors on existing and new plants in the UK. This came as Ministers met with representatives from the nuclear industry in London. The Energy Secretary has asked Dr Mike Weightman for an interim report by mid May 2011 and a final report within six months. Both reports will be made public.

Mr Huhne said: “The tragic events in Japan are still unfolding. We should not rush to judgement. It is important that we have the full facts at our disposal. I have asked the Chief Nuclear Inspector for a full report so that the implications for the UK are clear. Safety is and will continue to be the number one priority for existing nuclear sites and for any new power stations. I want to ensure that any lessons learned from Mike Weightman’s report are applied to the UK’s new build programme.” At the Nuclear Development Forum, the Secretary of State told industry that Government would consider the Nuclear National Policy Statement in light of the emerging nuclear crisis in Japan before proceeding with the ratification process.

Appeal To Trace Teenager

Detectives from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command (HSCC) have issued a new image of Reece Ludlow, who they would like to speak to following the murder of a 35-year old woman in Sutton. The body of Louisa Jane Brannan of no fixed address was found by police officers on Monday 14 March at 6.45am at a flat in Oakwood Court. A post mortem examination at St Hellier Hospital on 16 March found the cause of death to be multiple stab wounds. 18-year old Reece Ludlow has not been seen since the discovery of Ms Brannan's body. Detectives are concerned for his welfare and are advising members of the public who see him not to approach him and call 999 immediately. Reece is described as mixed race, 5' 7" tall and of slim build. He is from the Sutton area but is believed to have links to Merton, specifically Mitcham. Detective Chief Inspector Dave Manning, HSCC, said: "I would like to appeal to Reece directly to get in contact with the investigation team. I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who Reece may be staying with to contact police, it is imperative that we are able to speak to him as soon as possible."

Willetts Comments On HEFCE Recurrent Grants

Commenting on the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) Recurrent Grants for 2011-12, David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science, said: “Next year will be a year of transition to a new funding regime where more teaching funding will follow the choices of students. We recognise the vital role that higher education plays, which is why revenue funding for teaching and research in higher education could rise by nearly 10 per cent in cash terms by 2014-15. These changes will support a more diverse sector, where the choices of informed students provide a drive towards high quality teaching and efficient use of resources.”

(BMcN)