news story

13th June 2007

Prime Minister Gives Backing "In Principle" to SEvern Tidal Scheme

  Click here to read the transcript of Steve's question to the PM

Responding to a question in Parliament today from Northavon MP Steve Webb, the Prime Minister has said that the Government 'in principle' supports a Severn Barrage or similar scheme.

The Lib Dem MP, who has previously led a debate at Westminster on the subject, challenged the Prime Minister at his weekly Question Time, about the lack of progress on using tidal power from the Severn. Steve Webb said:

"People have talked about a Severn Barrage or similar scheme for decades. The Prime Minister has now overseen another decade during which there has been a lot of talk but precious little action. If the Government was serious about renewable energy, would we not already be harnessing the tidal power of the Severn?"

In response the Prime Minister said that the Government was, in principle, supportive of a scheme, but said that they had to be satisfied that it would be 'cost-effective'.

Commenting afterwards, Steve Webb said: "This is the clearest sign yet that the Government is looking seriously at the options for tidal power from the Severn. But the time for talking will have to stop soon. We urgently need a thorough evaluation of the economic and environmental implications of all the different options so that we can make an informed choice and start to benefit soon".

The Government's 'Sustainable Development Commission' is looking into this issue and is expected to report in the Autumn, but further feasibility studies are likely to be needed before progress can be made.