Commenting on today’s publication of the Government’s siting assessment for new nuclear power stations, which says that they could be built in areas at risk from flooding, tsunami and erosion, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, Steve Webb said:

"The Government appears to have abandoned common sense when it comes to new nuclear power.

"Ministers are so desperate to get new nuclear plants going, they are willing to look at sites at risk of falling into the sea.

"This irresponsible approach has all the hallmarks of a Government in a hurry.

"They are sweeping aside any local accountability in the planning system, and now they are willing to consider nuclear plants even in areas at risk of storm surge, tsunami and coastal erosion."