Monday 9 May 2016

UK failed to consult over Hinkley Point risks – UN

The UK failed to consult European countries over potential risks the Hinkley Point project could have on them.

That’s according to the UN Economic and Social Council committee, which stated the Tory administration didn’t properly consult its neighbouring countries over environmental risks.

EDF Energy plans to build the first new nuclear power station in the UK for a generation at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

The UN's report adds the UK “is in non-compliance with its obligation” to discuss with other countries about the consequences the nuclear project could have on them.

It explains countries such as the Netherlands and Norway don’t agree with the UK and can’t confirm that “they can exclude a significant adverse transboundary impact from the activity”.

It also states a scientific report from Austria stated a major accident in the nuclear plant could have a “significant adverse transboundary impact on the Austrian territories well as territories of France, Germany and Switzerland”.

The UN recommends the UK to discuss the possible impact of any accident or other events that could affect those nations in close proximity to Hinkley.

In April, three EU law barristers stated French plans to subsidise EDF for the nuclear project could be illegal.

The £18 billion nuclear plant will receive £2 billion from the UK Government and £6 billion from China.

The final investment decision of the project has been delayed and senior representatives from EDF have being asked to return to Parliament to explain the decision.

DECC said compliance with international obligations "is something we take very seriously".

A spokesperson added: "We are confident that we have met the relevant international requirements in relation to Hinkley Point C.

"We have world-leading nuclear safety regulations in the UK, which Hinkley Point C would have to comply with."