Wednesday, 27 September, 2006

by John Phaceas
The West Australian

Australia's pro-uranium lobby has reorganised to mount a united front to promote the industry as debate continues to rage over the potential to export the nuclear fuel to countries such as India and China.

The Australian Uranium Association was formed yesterday to take over from the Melbourne-based Uranium Information Centre, which primarily provided public information on the industry and uranium market.

The AUA will be led by former Rio Tinto and Business Council of Australia executive Michael Angwin.

UIC chairman Harry Kenyon-Slaney said the new organisation would fulfil both the UIC's traditional educational role as well as represent the industry in its dealings with governments and the wider community.

"Uranium mining is set to expand in Australia and there is significant interest in further exploration," he said. "It is time to establish a representative body that can both articulate the national interest associated with uranium mining and export, as well as advocate the industry's positions to government and the community."

Mr Kenyon-Slaney said the AUA's objective was to promote the development of the uranium mining and export industry in an environment of policy certainty and regulatory stability.

"Achieving that will ensure the industry delivers on its potential to become a major contributor to the national economy," he said.