As head of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) Windscale nuclear research laboratories in Cumbria from 1976 until 1987, my father, Harry Lawton, who has died aged 91, was a major figure at an important stage in the development of nuclear power in the UK.
Born and educated in Barrow-in-Furness, he graduated in natural sciences from Emmanuel College, Cambridge. During the second world war he worked in the naval shipyards where, as a young scientist, he developed X-ray techniques to check the quality of welds on submarines. He returned to Cambridge in 1946 to complete a PhD in ferromagnetism, before moving into nuclear research.
From the Ministry of Supply he was transferred to the UKAEA when it was set up in 1954, and in 1961 became the deputy head of the research laboratories at Windscale. He had three years from 1963 to 1966 at the Dounreay nuclear site in Caithness, as assistant director responsible for advancing the technology of fast reactor fuel, before being promoted to head the labs at Windscale.
Harry was of the view that a well-managed nuclear power programme had the potential to bring about a more equal distribution of energy across the world; and that this in turn would lead to more stability and fewer wars, particularly over oil.
Former colleagues have described how he combined an outstanding intellect with great technical insight and a gift for leadership, inspiring a generation of scientists and engineers. "Walking the floor" was part of his style, talking to staff at all levels, discussing research in areas covering engineering, physics, chemistry and mathematics, getting to know the 500 staff and keeping in touch with many after retirement.
Harry recognised at an early stage that decommissioning was a vital part of the overall nuclear programme. He went on to lead the pioneering research programme to decommission the Windscale reactor. His period in charge at Windscale was one of exciting technical development which he fostered with pride and great ability.
He also played an active part in the local community, chairing the governors of Wyndham comprehensive school in Egremont (now the West Lakes Academy) for many years, using his influence to drive up the standards of education in west Cumbria. He had a fine sense of humour and loved words, correcting everyone's grammar; he was once seen reading a copy of Sir Ernest Gowers's Complete Plain Words in the stands at Brunton Park during half-time while watching Carlisle United. He always read the Guardian and enjoyed Araucaria's crosswords.
Dorothy, Harry's wife of more than 60 years, died in June. They are survived by their five children, Mary, Philip, the twins Michael and Nancy, and me; and 10 grandchildren.