Prospect represents 500 scientists and technologists employed at AEA Technology. David Luxton, Prospect National Secretary, said: "The sale of the waste management technology business finally ends years of uncertainty for the scientists in the division working at the cutting edge of nuclear waste management technology.

"Similarly, the successful bidder for the company’s rail division should provide a much needed cash injection to fund future research and development in the rail industry and longer term security for those scientists, engineers and technical staff under new ownership.

"Having now divested these businesses AEA Technology will have a more focussed interest in its core and successful environment activities."

The union also welcomes the company’s commitment to give a cash boost to the pension schemes of the remaining businesses as a result of this sale and will work with AEA Technology to ensure any subsequent redundancies among central staff are implemented on a voluntary basis.