Japan’s Nuclear Safety Record Criticised by Regulator

Japan’s nuclear watchdog has refused to give the go-ahead to commission an experimental fast-breeder reactor due to safety concerns.

The Monju reactor in the Fukui prefecture has been closed for almost two decades after a leak and a fire in 1995. The head of the Nuclear Regulation Authority has blasted Monju’s operator for its lack of a safety culture, saying it deserved severe action. The decision comes as dealing with Japan’s stockpile of nuclear waste becomes more urgent.

Professor Andrew O’Neil speaks to Karon Snowdon of ABC Radio Australia. You can hear the entire podcast here: http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/asia/radio/program/connect-asia/japans-nuclear-safety-record-criticised-by-regulator/1132464