New nuclear power stations a colossal mistake - Hughes

11.44.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 16th Apr 2009

Simon Hughes MP, with Stephen Robinson, on a visit to Chelmsford

The Government has published a list of 11 possible sites for new nuclear power stations, including Bradwell near Maldon. Liberal Democrat Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Simon Hughes MP commented: "A new generation of nuclear power stations will be a colossal mistake regardless of where they are built."

"They are hugely expensive, dangerous and will take too long to build. There is a real danger that the Government is becoming too close to the big energy companies.

"The best answer to Britain's energy needs is a massive expansion of renewable energy. If billions of pounds are wasted on new nuclear sites the money simply won't be available to do this."