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Atomic energy has played an important role in international relations as a means of state power. From 1945 to 1959, Japan was significantly influenced by developments in atomic energy as a result of the Anglo-American "special relationship." During World War II, Britain and the United States cooperated to develop atomic weapons to use against Japan. In the ensuing Cold War era, the two countries advanced peaceful uses of atomic energy for Japan to counter the influence of the Soviet Union through psychological warfare. The U.S. Atomic Energy Peace Mission visited Japan in May 1955. However, the Japanese government altered its nuclear policy to solicit support from Britain because the United States was falling behind in atomic energy development. A British nuclear reactor was used as the first commercial nuclear power station, in 1959, whereby Britain earned parity with the United States in the context of nuclear power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on an assessment report of the 2011 Fukushima Nuclear Accident published by Great Britain's Chief Nuclear Inspector Mike Weightman. As per the report, the current system of regulation in the country has identified the problems with the plant and has recommended for its closure. It further reports that the main challenges which the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faces is to encourage the members of the Convention for Nuclear Safety.