nuclear-news

Drakeford’s nuclear scepticism troubling for Wylfa, say rivals, Wales should be “sceptical” about nuclear power, a Welsh Labour leadership candidate has said. BBC , 12 Oct 18Mark Drakeford’s comments have been attacked by his election rivals – Vaughan Gething and Eluned Morgan.

Both suggested his views could hit the prospects for the planned Wylfa Newydd nuclear power station on Anglesey.

Mr Drakeford said its local impact should be borne by the developers, but that did not mean that the plant cannot be built.

The winner of the Welsh Labour contest would take the helm of the Welsh Government as first minister – he or she would not have powers over large power stations or Wylfa.

That lies with the UK Government in London, which opened talks with the Japanese firm behind the plant in the summer.

However, Mr Drakeford’s comments appear to strike a more cautious tone to the project than the existing First Minister Carwyn Jones, who said it has the potential “to transform the Welsh economy”.

‘High bar’

In a Twitter video Mr Drakeford said Wales’ attitude to nuclear power should be “sceptical”.

The finance secretary said the “bar” should be set high over “developments that would have a direct impact on the Welsh population”.

Mr Drakeford, the finance secretary, said he understood the Wylfa Newydd project was “potentially a very big investment in that local economy”.

But he said “the long-term interests” of people who live on Anglesey should be protected.

He also vowed to establish an independent expert committee to provide “the best possible advice on the impact” Hinkley Point C in Somerset could have on people in Wales……. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-45837501