Conservatives pledge to push for new nuclear plants in Scotland despite SNP ban

During a speech at the Conservative conference, Andrew Bowie, the party’s shadow energy secretary, denounced the SNP’s de-facto ban on constructing new nuclear power stations in Scotland as contrary to common sense. He declared that the Conservatives intend to pursue legislation that would permit new nuclear sites anywhere in the UK, including Scotland, to safeguard jobs and national energy security. Bowie highlighted that the only operating nuclear plant in Scotland, Torness in East Lothian, will run until 2030, but argued that further capacity is essential.

SNP energy minister Stephen Gethins responded by emphasizing Scotland’s commitment to renewable energy, citing offshore wind’s potential to support as many as 49,000 jobs and its safety advantages over nuclear. The exchange underscores a growing partisan clash over the country’s future energy mix and economic strategy.