Head of Energy Law & Policy Denise Cheong hosted a visit to CIL by Professor Laurence Williams, one of the world’s leading experts in nuclear safety regulation on 14 November 2024. For over four decades, Professor Williams has contributed to improving nuclear safety in the United Kingdom and internationally. As Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Nuclear Installations, he was responsible for licensing all civil and some defence-related nuclear installations in the Great Britain. He is Emeritus Professor of Nuclear Safety and Regulation at the University of Central Lancashire, a Visiting Professor in Nuclear Safety, Security and Regulation at King’s College London and is also affiliated with Imperial College London. 

During this meeting, a range of issues across nuclear safety, security and safeguards were discussed. Topics covered included challenges posed to the current international legal framework by nuclear-powered ships for civilian use as well as the deployment of nuclear power in space. At the regional level, discussions centred around ASEAN norms embodying the region’s commitment to following international rules, standards and practices relevant to nuclear governance.