Chamber
Plenary, 29 Mar 2007
29 Mar 2007 · S2 · Plenary
Item of business
First Minister's Question Time
Secretary of State for Scotland (Meetings)
I have just tried to explain the position. I understand that this is an issue on which I must answer on behalf of my party and that, on this occasion, I am, perhaps, not speaking for everyone on the Executive benches, but I will reiterate the position.
First, it is a fact that there are no plans for new nuclear power stations in Scotland. Secondly, we should not even consider having new nuclear power stations in Scotland until the issue of waste has been resolved. However, the third fact is that more than a third of our electricity comes from nuclear sources. For parties to rule that option out for ever, in an uncertain world in which energy supplies are increasingly uncertain, is questionable. During the election campaign, I will be pleased to put forward that balanced approach.
First, it is a fact that there are no plans for new nuclear power stations in Scotland. Secondly, we should not even consider having new nuclear power stations in Scotland until the issue of waste has been resolved. However, the third fact is that more than a third of our electricity comes from nuclear sources. For parties to rule that option out for ever, in an uncertain world in which energy supplies are increasingly uncertain, is questionable. During the election campaign, I will be pleased to put forward that balanced approach.
In the same item of business
3. Robin Harper (Lothians) (Green):
Green
To ask the First Minister when he will next meet the Secretary of State for Scotland and what issues he intends to discuss. (S2F-2809)
The First Minister (Mr Jack McConnell):
Lab
I expect to meet the Secretary of State again soon. I am sure that we will discuss a range of issues that are current.
Robin Harper:
Green
Can the First Minister clarify whether he and his party will be campaigning in this election for the building of new nuclear power stations in Scotland?
Phil Gallie (South of Scotland) (Con):
Con
Hopefully.
The First Minister:
Lab
I think that that might be an announcement from Phil Gallie of his late candidacy in the election.The position that I and my party will take in the election ...
Robin Harper:
Green
So it is in, it is out, it is shake it all about, it is reserved, it is devolved. Can the First Minister tell us whether a vote for Labour is a vote for new ...
The First Minister:
Lab
I have just tried to explain the position. I understand that this is an issue on which I must answer on behalf of my party and that, on this occasion, I am, ...