New and clear answer from Rhodri must be backed up by action

Release/Rhyddhau: 26/03/07

Contact/Cyswllt: Mick Bates
029 2089 8342/ 01686 625527/ mick.bates@wales.gov.uk 

Rhodri Morgan has been urged by the Welsh Liberal Democrats to have the courage of his convictions and demand the devolution of energy planning powers. The party says that this is the only way to avoid the imposition of new nuclear power stations on Wales from the UK government.

Under questioning from Mick Bates today, the First Minister was forced to admit his opposition to new nuclear power stations in Wales, setting Rhodri Morgan on a collision course with the pro-nuclear Welsh Secretary Peter Hain.

Mr Bates, environment spokesperson for the Welsh Lib Dems said:
“I was slightly taken aback by the First Minister’s unequivocal answer to my question on his support for nuclear power. He said that he was firmly against new nuclear in Wales but that we ‘can’t make it unlawful’.

“My challenge to him is to do the next best thing and demand the planning powers on large-scale power stations so that we can prevent any new nuclear stations in Wales. Having these powers means that it is Wales and the Assembly that will take the decision regarding any plans for nuclear. At the moment it is entirely a matter for Westminster, where Peter Hain has made it clear that he supports new nuclear power.

“I welcome the First Minister’s conversion to the cause, but to avoid the danger of Wales being burdened with a toxic treasure trove, we must have the devolved power to say no to nuclear. That ability will only come with planning powers for energy stations of 50MW and over."