Operators of nuclear power plants in the U.K. will be expected to take on a liability of EUR1.2 billion for each of their sites, a seven-fold increase on the current level of GBP140 million, the government said in proposals published Monday.

The increased amount proposed is in line with changes to the Paris and Brussels Conventions on nuclear third party liability. There will also be an increase in the categories of damage for which operators are liable, to include damage related to the environment.

The geographical scope of those eligible to claim compensation will be widened, and any liabilities will be channeled automatically to the nuclear operator.

"The coalition is clear on new nuclear: it has a role to play as part of a diverse energy mix in meeting the U.K. 's future needs, but it will not receive any public subsidy," said Energy and Climate Change Secretary Chris Huhne. "We are taking steps to reduce any risk of the taxpayer having to pick up the tab for new nuclear further down the track."

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