By Sama Marwan,
The UK Government’s Secretary of State for Scotland, Iain Murray, has warned that Scotland is becoming globally isolated due to the Scottish Government’s refusal to develop new nuclear power stations, a stance that he says risks missing out on significant economic opportunities and the creation of thousands of high-skilled jobs.
During a visit to the Torness nuclear power station in East Lothian, Murray highlighted new research showing that Scotland has become one of the few regions in Europe where there is still an official position against expanding nuclear power, according to a statement from the UK Government.
He said:
“While the UK Government and European countries like France, Sweden, and Finland are moving ahead with nuclear energy projects, the Scottish Government continues to cling to an ideological stance that harms citizens’ interests and causes the country to miss opportunities for growth, job creation, and providing clean and secure energy.”
According to research by the Nuclear Industry Association and the World Nuclear Association, 87% of the global economy supports developing new nuclear projects. This includes European countries that previously opposed nuclear power, such as Italy, Denmark, and Belgium, while Germany has also softened its stance toward nuclear initiatives at the European level.
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said that nuclear power could provide Scotland with a reliable and clean source of electricity that complements renewable energy. He warned that the Scottish Government’s refusal to replace the Torness plant when it retires soon reflects a lack of seriousness in shaping energy policy.
Since opening in 1988, the Torness power station has contributed over £16 billion to the UK economy and supported more than 2,600 jobs annually. Combined, the Hunterston B and Torness power stations have contributed more than £29.4 billion.
