Miliband Backs Nuclear Expansion

The UK will 'fast track' a new set of nuclear reactors, the Climate Secretary said today.

Making the announcement, Ed Miliband insisted the country could not afford to "say no" to nuclear power.

Mr Miliband outlined almost a dozen sites identified as suitable for new energy schemes, across northern and southern England, and north Wales. Changes to planning legislation are expected to speed up the process.

He insisted nuclear power is a safe, low-carbon option to help tackle climate change.

However, the Tories have suggested the public will not be brought into the debate, with anti-nuclear campaigners claiming Mr Miliband's proposals are "not the answer".

New plants are expected to be located close to current bases, and their approval will be bolstered by new legal powers given to the Infrastructure Planning Commission.

Many of the UK's current stations are due to be decommissioned in 2023. It is anticipated the new facilities will be implemented as early as 2017.

"When you look at the challenge of climate change, it is right to consider all the low-carbon alternatives. Nuclear is a low-carbon alternative which, in my view, is safe and secure," Mr Miliband told the BBC.

Criticism was pointed at 'unelected' officials sitting on the Infrastructure Planning Commission, which would make the final ruling on plans.

"If you take out accountability, then it is going to make people resistant to change," shadow energy and climate change secretary Greg Clark said.

But Mr Miliband said local residents would have more opportunities to make their views known than under the current system.

Friends of the Earth executive director Andy Atkins said: "Building new plants would divert precious resources from developing safe renewable power."

(PR/BMcC)