Australian energy may go nuclear

OTTAWA: Australian Prime Minster John Howard said in Canada rising oil prices had changed the economics of energy, causing an "inevitable" shift toward nuclear power.

Speaking from Ottawa, Howard said that Australia and Canada -- which own 60 percent of the world's known uranium reserves -- should form a united front on mining and sales, The Australian reported.

In addition to economic considerations, Howard emphasized that nuclear energy is both "cleaner and greener," urging opponents of nuclear power to support it.

Wherever he travels, the political discussions focus on the price of oil, Howard said. The Australian energy plan devised only 18 months ago will have to be reviewed because of the unforeseen spike in oil prices.

Australia and Canada want a stronger voice in how uranium resources will be used globally. Howard plans to discuss the two nations' mutual interest in joining the Asia Pacific climate pact as they seek to develop closer economic ties.