A peer has questioned the “functioning independence” of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) following the government’s decision to change its sponsor department from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). Projects that involve multiple regulators will have a single coordinating point of contact through a lead regulator model, with the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) as the default lead for nuclear fission. We will legislate to establish a Commission on Nuclear Regulation to resolve cross cutting issues and reduce duplication.” “The DWP is not responsible for any activities in the nuclear sector, but DESNZ is and could potentially influence the regulator, hence the separation. “We will continue to provide independent regulation of the nuclear sector for a safe, secure and sustainable future.”