WEIR HIGHLIGHTS CONCERNS ON LACK OF INFORMATION ON NUCLEAR

SNP Westminster Energy Spokesperson, Mike Weir MP, has expressed concern at the lack of information regarding temporary closures of nuclear power stations due to safety concerns.

Mr Weir had lodged parliamentary questions seeking information on the temporary closure of power stations, but has been told by Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks that:

“Planned or unplanned closures of this nature are commercial and/or technical decisions for the companies that own and operate the power stations to take in conjunction with the relevant health and safety authorities. My department therefore does not keep records of the operation decisions of individual power stations.”

Mr Weir said the response illustrated the disjointed nature of the Westminster Government’s policy on nuclear power.

Mr Weir said:

“There are real and serious concerns about the safety of nuclear power. We have seen shut downs at both Hunterston and Torness over safety concerns, yet the UK Government apparently does not keep records of such closures. That seems just extraordinary.

“For Malcolm Wicks to claim this is a matter for the companies is plainly ridiculous at the same time when the Labour Government is trying to push the concept of new nuclear power stations.

“The record of the nuclear industry on openness does not inspire confidence.”