UK Government Raises Borrowing Cap for Civil Nuclear Police to £30 Million

In a significant financial move, the UK government has greenlit an order to boost the borrowing limit for the Civil Nuclear Police Authority (CNPA) from £10 million to a robust £30 million. This decision, encapsulated in The Civil Nuclear Police Authority (Borrowing Limit) (Amendment) Order 2025, marks the first exercise of a delegated power under the Energy Act 2004, aiming to enhance the operational capabilities of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC).

Why the Change?

The CNPA, which oversees the CNC—a specialised armed force safeguarding the UK's crucial nuclear sites and materials—requires increased financial flexibility to meet its expanding operational demands. Historically funded via Grant in Aid, the CNPA’s new financial structure includes loans formalised with HM Treasury. This shift aligns with the CNPA’s strategic objectives, supporting increased capital expenditure and ensuring transparency in financial operations.

What Does This Mean?

The amended borrowing limit is crucial for sustaining and expanding the CNC’s operational capacity. The CNC plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of nuclear materials across Great Britain, and the revision allows for better support of key operational projects. Each borrowing request will undergo rigorous scrutiny for value and feasibility, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

Consultation and Oversight

The decision didn't undergo public consultation, deemed unnecessary for this financial adjustment. However, it involved detailed discussions with the CNPA and HM Treasury, securing necessary approvals.

Impact Assessment

The order is expected to have negligible direct impact on businesses, charities, or the public sector, hence no full impact assessment was conducted. It falls outside the scope of the Government’s Better Regulation Framework, given its specific financial focus.

Parliamentary and Legal Assurance

The legislative change is firmly rooted in existing legal frameworks, requiring no additional statutory review. It also aligns with European human rights standards, as confirmed by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

In summary, this legislative adjustment signifies a strategic enhancement in the financial capabilities of the CNPA, ensuring the UK’s civil nuclear infrastructure remains well-protected and efficiently managed.