How nuclear energy can win Reform votes

Rufus Townend, CEN supporter

The rise of Reform UK has come at a time of stagnating economic growth and living standards across sections of the country. The party typically appeals to those who feel that they have been ‘left behind’ by unequal development, capitalising on this economic dissatisfaction to build support for a broad range of anti-incumbent social policies. One of these key areas of contention is climate change and specifically the UK’s target to achieve net zero by 2050. 

A strong Conservative nuclear policy could alleviate the economic malaise experienced in rural and deindustrialised areas, disintegrating Reform’s voter base, a key requirement for success in subsequent general elections. 

Selecting a site to build a nuclear reactor requires a specific set of conditions. Firstly, they must have ample access to water. Secondly, they must have good connectivity and lastly they must be sufficiently far away from densely populated areas. 

Therefore, in the UK, the optimal locations are coastal and deindustrialised. These are areas where Reform has typically enjoyed success. Building out nuclear power will generate significant economic activity in these areas, with jobs generated not only in the construction and maintenance itself but also in satellite industries supporting these endeavours. Reintegrating disenfranchised members of society can stall the progress of populism and win back typical Conservative voters. 

If done on a large enough scale, the availability of cheap energy can also rejuvenate general British industry. Technological advancements such as data centres and automated production lines, which represent the frontier of economic progress, require vast quantities of electricity. In fact, energy is by far the most significant cost associated with these technologies. Low cost and reliable energy, key traits of nuclear solutions, are a requirement for investment in these sectors. 

Building out nuclear capabilities will resuscitate British industry, disproportionately benefiting deindustrialised areas. The Conservative Party can meaningfully win back support with these policies.

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