Four weeks ago, EDF’s board gave its approval for two new nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point in Somerset.

The Government said it will take a short time to consider the project. That is understandable and I fully respect the decision.

Detractors have filled many column inches and broadcast hours. However, some critics risk losing sight of the bigger picture by overlooking the positive impact and importance of this investment for Britain.

China’s participation is much more than £6bn of inward investment. It brings the benefits of a 30-year partnership between EDF and CGN in nuclear construction in China, a country with the largest civil nuclear programme in the world.

EDF and CGN are close to successfully completing two EPR reactors in Taishan. The benefits for Hinkley Point C and the UK of our shared knowledge and experience are significant.

We know and trust our Chinese partners. Beyond that, the UK independent nuclear regulator has only granted Hinkley Point a nuclear site licence after being satisfied that security has been properly addressed. All staff on nuclear projects are rigorously vetted, wherever they come from. As is standard practice, the control systems at Hinkley Point C will be isolated from IT systems and the internet.