On behalf of over 2,170 of the company’s staff, National Secretary Anne Douglas said:

“While it is disappointing that British Energy is up for sale in the first place, this deal will assist with the new nuclear build that is needed to ensure security of electricity supply for the UK.

“We know EDF and have worked with them constructively elsewhere in the UK. What we have to ensure now is that they understand – and we hope that British Energy’s management has told them – that it is the staff that bring value to the company, more than any of the sites or grid connection points.

"If EDF recognises that I’m sure we will continue to enjoy constructive working relationships into the future.”

The union is seeking an early meeting with the new owners. Prospect is the UK’s largest union in the nuclear industry representing over 15,000 scientists, engineers and professional staff.