Government Must Act On Renewables

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 23rd Sep 2002

Today local MP, Andrew Stunell, called on the government to develop a long term energy policy that will reduce the UK's carbon emissions and enable us meet our targets set out in the Kyoto agreement.

Speaking at a meeting organised by the Electricity Association Mr Stunell said, "At the world summit in Johannesburg Tony Blair spoke of his desire to increase the amount of energy generated by renewables globally. If he wants to demonstrate genuine commitment, we must see more action from the government on renewables at home."

Renewables generate only 3% of energy in the UK at the moment and the government has failed to show true encouragement for the development of the renewables industry.

The government has just finished its consultation on Energy policy. Mr Stunell said, "Instead of pouring money into the failed nuclear industry, the government must put itself behind a genuinely sustainable energy policy. There is huge potential for a thriving renewables industry in the UK. Its just requires leadership from the government."