Blair says UK needs nuclear power

8.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 12th Jul 2006

Nuclear mushroom

Tony Blair insisted yesterday that the UK needed nuclear power as part of a mixture of energy sources if it was to reduce carbon emissions and remain self-sufficient. The prime minister spoke ahead of the publication of the government's energy review, which include plans for a new generation of nuclear power stations. The Liberal Democrats are opposing an increase in nuclear power and favour using more reusable energy.

Stephen Tindale, executive director of Greenpeace, talking about people's opposition to using nuclear power said "Polls show that most people oppose nuclear power, even as a last resort. The prime minister seems to be the only one interested in having it as a first option."

The Liberal Democrats are running a campaign against nuclear power on their national website at www.libdems.org.uk

Related Link:

Download the Liberal Democrat briefing paper on the costs of nuclear power.