Nuclear workers asked to spy on colleagues’ lives

[bananas]

Source: Herald Scotland

‘Orwellian’ moves aimed at reducing blackmail risk

Thousands of staff at UK nuclear power stations have been told to spy on the private lives of workmates and inform on colleagues who might be “vulnerable” to blackmail or bribery by terrorists intent on getting access to Britain’s nuclear secrets and stocks of weapon-grade plutonium.

As part of the “security measures” nuclear power station staff are being asked to keep a watch on their colleagues’ love lives. They are also being told to keep tabs on colleagues they think may be using illegal drugs and even those travelling abroad.

The moves by the government’s nuclear security agency to step up the vetting of civilian nuclear workers have been condemned by trade unionists and critics as “Orwellian”. But the agency insists the measures are justified by the threat of terrorism.

<snip>

Dr David Lowry, an independent consultant on nuclear security, pointed out that experts had long predicted that an increasing reliance on the nuclear industry would have dangerous implications for civil liberties due to the generation of electricity by power plants producing plutonium, which can be weaponised, as a by-product.

<snip>

Read more: http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/nuclear-wo...

[1monster]

1. But doesn't that leave spied on workers vulnerable to blackmail by their spying co-workers?

[Demeter]

2. One Would Think So

Maybe it's a plan to reduce labor costs by driving out anyone who feels vulnerable.

[boppers]

3. Anti-nuke hysteria.

In the US, maintaining a Q clearance has always been dependent on not screwing your life up or hanging with shady characters... it's pretty simple, really.

[Octafish]

4. Certainly is a time-saver.

The powers-that-be get to use the information for blackmail all-the-faster, in the thrall and service of the corporate fascist state.

[lunasun]

5. Well Homer Simpson

is long time married with children, and beer is not illegal and no $$ or drive to travel far much except to the kitchen for a beer or donut, so I guess he gets to keep his job.. no way his type could be bribed..except with a donut...now I feel safe!

[friendly_iconoclast]

6. "Don't suspect a friend, report him"

[Javaman]

7. Ohhhhh, LIVES, I thought it said WIVES. nt