Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Bob Blackman and James Davies

Wednesday 5th July 2023 Commons Chamber

[Alexander Stafford (Rother Valley) (Con)]

11. What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on new nuclear power sites in Wales.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Dr James Davies)]

To continue the topic from the previous question, there are regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the potential for new nuclear in Wales. This Government are launching Great British Nuclear to support our ambition to ramp up nuclear capacity in the UK to up to 24 GW by 2050. GBN is actively working with the Government on access to potential sites for new nuclear projects.

[Bob Blackman]

Nuclear power has an important part to play in a balanced energy policy to provide energy security. Does my hon. Friend agree that Wylfa is an ideal site not only to continue generating nuclear power, but to expand beyond it, because the reality is that without improving and continuing that site, nuclear power has to come to Wales?

[Dr Davies]

I agree with my hon. Friend. Wylfa is one of the best sites in this country, if not in Europe, for nuclear power generation due to its optimal location and geology. I am confident that the site’s potential to support our 24 GW target can be utilised. I know it is a site that GBN is very interested in.