Construction of nuclear power stations will lead to a 'Nuclear Tax'

5.07.41pm GMT Tue 29th Nov 2005

In a speech hosted by CentreForum, Charles Kennedy responded to the Prime Minister's announcement of an energy review, saying 'the DTI has made no assessment of the costs of the construction of new nuclear power stations,' which means it is likely 'we will have a nuclear tax.'

Mr Kennedy detailed the costs already incurred to the taxpayer:

"Parliament has just had to approve a £56bn bill to clean up the waste from the nuclear power we have now. That's equivalent to an £800 bill for every person in the UK. Imagine where we would be if we could spend that kind of money on renewable energy."

"This energy review must set out a clear strategy for investment in clean, green renewable energy. We need a Government prepared to invest properly for our future energy needs, and to invest properly in the environment. That means proper funding for renewables, real incentives to cut demand, and concerted action to cut out waste."