Scottish Greens reaffirm opposition to nuclear energy
The Scottish Greens have reaffirmed their opposition to new nuclear power stations following a debate at their party conference in Inverness today.
Party members voted against a motion that would have changed the party’s longstanding opposition to nuclear energy and allowed the construction of new reactors under certain conditions.
Scottish Green MSP and energy spokesperson Kristopher Leask welcomed the decision, reiterating the party’s commitment to investing in Scotland’s vast renewable energy potential.
Kristopher said:
“I am delighted that our members have reaffirmed our opposition to nuclear power and our commitment to a cleaner, greener future for Scotland.
“I welcome the debate, it is important that members can discuss and challenge our policies, but I firmly believe we have reached the right decision.
“Nuclear power is expensive, wasteful and takes years, if not decades, to deliver. We know that it leaves behind dangerous radioactive waste that future generations will be left to manage, while doing nothing to bring down household energy bills in the short term.
“Scotland has enormous potential in wind, wave, tidal and solar energy. We should be investing in those resources, creating thousands of good green jobs and ensuring that communities benefit from the energy generated at their doorsteps.
“At a time when households are struggling with sky-high energy bills and the climate emergency is becoming ever more urgent, we cannot afford to waste billions of pounds on costly nuclear projects.
“The Scottish Greens will continue to champion a renewable energy future that puts people and planet first, rather than lining the pockets of nuclear energy giants.”
Kristopher added:
“The UK Government’s obsession with forcing a new generation of nuclear power on Scotland disregards devolution and goes against the will of the Scottish Parliament.
“Instead of chucking more money into expensive nuclear projects, Andy Burnham should be backing renewable energy that secures jobs and cuts bills
“Scotland’s priority must be creating clean, green, secure jobs that support nuclear workers into new industries while revitalising communities across Scotland.”