Nuclear Sector Deal

Stephen Lloyd Excerpts
Thursday 28th June 2018

(6 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Sam Gyimah Portrait Mr Gyimah
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That is a very good question. The deal should reduce the cost of decommissioning—while, obviously, maintaining the highest safety standards—but it will also bring us up to date with modern methods.

Stephen Lloyd Portrait Stephen Lloyd (Eastbourne) (LD)
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The costs of all renewable technologies, including wind and solar, have fallen faster than almost anyone predicted, and they now represent much better-value low-carbon energy. However, the Government cut investment in renewables by more than 50% in 2017, and just this week they rejected proposals for the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon. Is this additional investment in nuclear further evidence that the Government are turning their back on renewables?

Sam Gyimah Portrait Mr Gyimah
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On the contrary. Since 1990, the UK has cut emissions by 43%, while our economy has grown by more than two thirds. We have reduced emissions faster than any other G7 nation, while leading the G7 countries in growth in national income per person. We are actually increasing our economic growth, while at the same time ensuring that we are doing what we need to do for the environment by promoting clean growth.