Strategy and Timescales So that fusion can be available at the time when it is urgently required, the fusion option should be established by about 2040. This requires the achievement of: demonstration of "ignition" (a self sustaining fusion plasma) demonstration of solutions to material physics problems in ignited conditions demonstration of the ultra-safe generation of large amounts of electricity demonstration of economic acceptability. Present day experiments (especially JET) are investigating conditions close to ignition and provide clear and compelling evidence that there are no obstacles to the achievement of ignition in future devices. The current plans of the international fusion programme envisage achievement of the other objectives via a sequence of overlapping steps. The viability of this programme has been independently examined by the Evaluation Board appointed by the European Commission. The Board accepted in broad terms the strategy of the programme and concluded that, on the basis of the progress achieved so far, the ultimate objective appears to be realistic, and that a prototype fusion power plant that can be considered the "first of a series", can be expected to operate around 2040. It must be emphasised, however, that the above timetable is not a necessary feature of the technologies. It could be accelerated somewhat if required. Because the costs of either accepting or averting global climatic change will be high, it is important to choose the optimal combination of measures. Fusion is expected to play a major role in the long-term, in reconciling economic growth with climatic stability. The UK plays a key role in both the European and International programmes and through this is positioned to take full advantage of the potential benefits from participation in this effort.