The Wire

Concerns over China’s nuclear capabilities appear to have fallen by the wayside as the Australian Government embarks on a deal to export uranium to China. While a veil of secrecy has shrouded the negotiations, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has made no secret of his support for the nuclear industry and for this agreement, especially if China abides by Australian regulations and becomes a signatory to the Bilateral Safeguard Agreement. Under this agreement China will be prevented from using the uranium for nuclear weapons or for military purposes like nuclear submarines. But even with such agreements in place critics argue that its not enough given the Chinese government’s history. And not surprisingly, this view is not shared by the uranium sector who have welcomed the decision. Ian Hore-Lacey is the Manager of the Uranium Information Centre in Melbourne, he’s speaking with Paulina Vidal.