Lib Dems say 'No' to nuclear (Andrew Simpson)

Lib Dems say 'No' to nuclear

July 12, 2006 1:10 PM

Nuclear power would require a massive public subsidy

Andrew Simpson has responded with anger to the publication of the Government's Energy Review yesterday recommending the future use of nuclear power.

"It seems highly unethical to me to impose such a dangerous and environmentally unsound source of energy on the public, and I have serious concerns about the viability of the nuclear industry full stop" Andrew said.

In a statement to the House of Commons, Alistair Darling, Secretary of State for Trade & Industry said: "The government has concluded that new nuclear power stations could make a significant contribution to meeting our energy policy goals."

Both Northampton North Labour MP Sally Keeble and Northampton South Conservative MP Brian Binley have voted consistently in favour of building new generation nuclear power stations, despite claiming to have green credentials.

Responding to the review's publication, Edward Davey MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Trade and Industry Secretary said:

"By picking the nuclear option the Government are imposing a stealth tax on every home. Every nuclear power station ever built has needed public subsidies and government guarantees.

"Deciding to create more nuclear waste, when we're still not sure where to put the waste from the last 50 years, is utterly irresponsible. With nuclear decommissioning and waste disposal costs already approaching £100 billion, this proposal is also financially reckless.

"If the Government invested more in energy efficiency and renewable technologies, along with support for local combined heat and power and microgeneration and clean coal technology, then new nuclear build would not be necessary.

To find out more about Lib Dem policy on energy go to: http://www.libdems.org.uk/