A shame that so many are dipping out, citing other's poor level of response (a descent into Dogma and Delusion?) as a justification.

Perhaps I shall be able to give the last word on nuclear power and international diplomacy to Professor Richard Broinowski, who spoke at the SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE FOR AN INQUIRY INTO THE CONTRACT FOR A NEW REACTOR AT LUCAS HEIGHTS on FRIDAY, 27 OCTOBER 2000, in Canberra. His humble self-introduction to that august body was as follows:

"Prof. Broinowski ... I am an honorary professor—that means they do not pay me—at the University of Canberra, and a diplomat of 34 years experience. During my various postings I have analysed the nuclear programs of the countries to which I have been accredited."

He continued:

"Since retiring from DFAT in May 1997, I have maintained my interest in nuclear matters and I have followed the debate about whether Australia needs a new research reactor at Lucas Heights.

"I do not support its construction, mainly because it has the potential to encourage rather than inhibit the proliferation of nuclear technology in the region, technology which is always capable of dual use: for peaceful purposes and to make weapons.

"I rather surprised myself about this conclusion I have drawn, because I have always been in favour of Australia having state-of-the-art defence equipment."

http://www.aph.gov.au/hansard/senate/commttee/s4366.pdf