British Energy: Taxpayers Save the Day...Again

11.38.26am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 1st Oct 2003

Commenting on the rescue package announced by troubled nuclear energy producer British Energy, Vince Cable MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow DTI Secretary, said: "This bailout is just another milestone on a difficult road for British Energy."

"The European Commission has not yet approved this package, and may well not do so. The British Government demand that other EU countries, such as France, stop unfair government aid for failing enterprises, and it is double standards to demand the right for the UK."

"Energy producers of renewables, gas and coal have been forced to face the rigours of the energy market. There is no reason to exempt the privatised nuclear power industry."

"British Energy ought to be placed into administration. Why should the taxpayer carry the risk?"

"The brutal truth is that nuclear power makes no economic or environmental sense."