Starmer backs nuclear power and criticises Tory ‘shambles'

Keir Starmer has described nuclear power as a “critical part” of the UK’s energy mix and pledged to get stalled projects over the line, as Labour positions itself fi rmly behind the technology.

- Ben Quinn, Kiran Stacey

Before the Labour leader presents his net zero energy policies during a speech in Scotland early next week, the party said that it would “push forward” nuclear to boost energy security, cut costs for consumers and create jobs.

Starmer accused the Conservatives yesterday of a “shambolic” failure to open any nuclear power stations during 13 years in power . Today he will visit Hinkley Point C in Somerset , one of a number of new plants still not operational despite having been planned in 2009 when Labour was last in power.

“My government will lower household energy bills, create jobs and ensure Britain’s energy security. Nuclear is a critical part of the UK’s energy mix,” said Starmer, who claimed Tory failure to approve the new plans had cost 7,000 British jobs.