Rethink on UK power urged after nuclear crisis

In the wake of explosions at the Fukushima power plant following the earthquake and tsunami which hit Japan on Friday, Liberal Democrat Energy Secretary Chris Huhne said the UK would be looking at the lessons to be learned.

He said that while there was no reason to expect similar seismic activity in the UK, officials were taking the situation extremely seriously.

“I have called on the Chief Nuclear Inspector, Dr Mike Weightman, for a thorough report on the implications of the situation in Japan and the lessons to be learned.

“It is essential that we understand the full facts and their implications, both for existing nuclear reactors and any new programme, as safety is always our number one concern,” he said.

While the Lib Dems opposed a new generation of nuclear power plants in the UK while in opposition, the coalition Government believes they will form a key part of the UK’s energy mix in the future.

Last year the Government gave the green light to eight sites for new nuclear power plants, with Mr Huhne claiming he was “fed up” with the stand-off between nuclear power and renewables to cut emissions and provide secure energy supplies.

But yesterday Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth called on Mr Huhne to focus on developing renewable power.

Greenpeace executive director John Sauven said: “The immediate priority must be supporting the humanitarian response to the appalling catastrophe in Japan and it is right that the UK government has responded quickly to requests for help with practical support.

“It is also right that the government begins to consider what this means for the UK’s own energy plans.

“In opposition Chris Huhne stated clearly that the success of Britain’s wind power industry made proposed new nuclear plants redundant.

“He recently shifted position in government, but we hope he’ll now put all his effort into ensuring Britain maintains its internationally competitive lead in safe offshore wind, wave and tidal power.

“Investment in renewable technologies can create tens of thousands of jobs and kick-start the sustainable economic recovery that is so badly needed.”

Friends of the Earth executive director Andy Atkins said: “The Japanese earthquake and its horrific aftermath has shocked the world, and our thoughts are with everyone caught up in this terrible crisis.”

He added: “The reality is that the UK doesn’t need nuclear power – developing the UK’s huge green energy potential and slashing energy waste can provide the cleaner, safer future we need.”