THE Government is poised to move a step closer to committing Britain to a nuclear future.

A private meeting of the Cabinet's energy and environment committee is today expected to discuss the go-ahead for the construction of a new generation of nuclear power stations.

On Friday ministers will also come under pressure to begin preparation for the separate nuclear question hanging over Tony Blair: the replacement of the Trident deterrent, which is expected to be discussed at a meeting of the Cabinet defence committee.

Gordon Brown, the Chancellor, signalled last week that he fully supported the need to retain independent nuclear weapons despite fears that it could cost up to pounds 25 billion.

David Cameron, the Conservative leader, made clear yesterday that he was in favour of maintaining an independent nuclear capability as "a long-term insurance policy''.

The Daily Telegraph understands that the Government's long- awaited energy review is now due to be published in the second week of July.

Mr Blair has effectively prejudged the outcome of the review - Labour's second in three years - by openly backing the need to replace Britain's 23 nuclear reactors.

Reports suggested yesterday that ministers would seek to limit public opposition to the construction of individual atomic plants by shortening and limiting public inquiries.