Welsh Lib Dems only party opposed to new nuclear power in Wales

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 26th Sep 2007

Plaid Cymru AMs turned their backs on a nuclear-free Wales today, failing to back a Welsh Lib Dem motion "rejecting any new nuclear power stations for Wales".

For the second week running the party demonstrated that it has sold out its principles for a place in Government. Last week they sided with the Labour and the Tories in wanting to keep the council tax, today they refused to rule out more nuclear stations in Wales.

Mick Bates said: "Plaid Cymru had a simple choice today. Either stick to their principles and reject new nuclear power stations in Wales. Or side with Labour in accepting Wales' position as a toxic treasure trove for a new generation of nuclear power stations.

"They chose the nuclear option - selling-out on a long held principle and supporting an unsafe and toxic legacy for future generations. Despite protestations from the likes of Leanne Wood about Plaid's anti-nuclear stance, the fact is they failed to back up their rhetoric in the vote today.

"Plaid are playing fast and loose with their principles and with the Welsh public. They cannot vote down this motion and still say they are anti-nuclear power.

"The Welsh Liberal Democrats are the only party committed to opposing any new nuclear power stations in Wales."

Notes/Nodiadau:

The Welsh Liberal Democrats continue to campaign against any new nuclear power stations in Wales.

Quotes from Plaid Cymru:

"Plaid Cymru does not support nuclear power" (2007 Pre-Manifesto)

"The party....enthusiastically declared its 'total opposition to the construction of any new nuclear power stations in Wales'" (Western Mail report on Plaid Conference, 14th September 2007)

"There are too many dangers with nuclear power, such as their potential for being targets for terrorist attacks and the catastrophic consequences of accidents. The Labour Government argues that nuclear power is an environmentally friendly solution for energy generation, but I see nothing environmental about all the nuclear waste that would have to be stored." (Alun Ffred Jones January 23 2006)

"Plaid Cymru the Party of Wales does not support new nuclear power stations" (2005 General Election manifesto)

Diwedd/Ends