Carlaw welcomes SNP’s Nuclear U-Turn

The SNP have U-turned today, as the Energy Minister has announced the life of Hunterston B Power Station may yet be extended.

Jackson Carlaw MSP, Scottish Conservative Climate Change Spokesperson, said:

"This is an unexpected yet welcome U-Turn from the SNP Government. Coming after years of uncompromising anti-nuclear rhetoric I suspect it is one they will not wish to be reminded of too often.

"There is no denying either the opportunity for Scotland or the Government's ambition on behalf of Scotland, to realise our natural renewable energy potential. Scottish Conservatives will do all we can to support business and industry to achieve this goal.

"However, for so long the SNP has repeatedly set its face against any on-going role for nuclear to secure both a low carbon solution and a continuity of energy supply throughout this decade, voting against a Scottish Conservative amendment to achieve just that only a few weeks ago.

"Finally, Fergus Ewing has realised that ambition in energy provision must be tempered with realism. The need to extend the life of Scotland's existing vital nuclear capacity during the lifetime of this parliament, specifically at Hunterston B, is essential if Scotland's energy needs are to be secured. Today has seen a rare outbreak of some much needed common sense from the SNP – it is clear that lots more will be required."

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