LOCAL MSP Craig Hoy has urged the SNP-Green coalition to drop their opposition to nuclear energy as he led a debate in the Scottish Parliament.
The Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP hit out after highlighting the planned closure of Torness nuclear power station in Dunbar, part of the South Scotland region he represents.
In his speech, Craig Hoy highlighted the hugely positive impact Torness has had on the local jobs market including apprenticeship opportunities, as well as the local and national economy.
Craig Hoy said that the coalition need to rethink their current energy strategy and recognise that East Lothian could be a ‘jewel in the crown’ going forward with energy being provided by both nuclear and renewables.
He described the opposition to nuclear energy as ‘student politics’ as Torness gets set to decommission in 2028.
Scottish Conservative South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to lead this crucial debate in the Scottish Parliament.
“Torness has been at the heart of the local economy and local communities in East Lothian for decades and has provided secure high-skilled employment for hundreds of local workers. I’d like to thank everyone for all their work at Torness.
“While Torness is coming to the end of it’s natural lifespan, it’s decommissioning will leave a significant gap in the energy needs in the South of Scotland and further afield. Future generations could well miss out on job opportunities with SNP-Green coalition remaining fully opposed to new nuclear energy.
“That is student politics of the highest order and playing games with people’s livelihoods.
“This opposition to nuclear energy needs to be dropped. As we strive to meet net zero targets, there is no reason why we cannot have a mix of energy sources. East Lothian could be the jewel in the crown with a balance of nuclear and renewable energy.
“I will continue to stand up for local jobs and urge the SNP-Green coalition to drop its misguided opposition to nuclear energy.”
