Minister hints at go-ahead for nuclear energy programme

He told MPs safety in the industry remained the coalition’s “number one priority”, admitting the Government’s policy had been delayed following the earthquake in Japan which triggered a meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant.

Mr Huhne said he would consider all 26 recommendations made by Dr Mike Weightman, who was asked to review potential dangers in the UK to nuclear power.

The chief nuclear adviser’s interim report yesterday found existing and planned nuclear power stations in this country were of a different design to those at Fukushima.

Responding to an urgent question from Labour MP Paul Flynn (Newport West), Mr Huhne told the Commons: “Safety is, and will continue to be, our number one priority and I believe it is vitally important that the regulators and industry continue to adhere to the principle of continuous improvement for all existing and future nuclear sites and facilities.

“My officials will review carefully the interim report but from my discussions with Dr Weightman I see no reason why we should not proceed with our current policy.”