Nuclear decision time

THE Government’s surprise decision to delay approval of the new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point has raised the prospect that the £18 billion project, which is meant to play a key role in providing Britain’s future energy supplies, will be scrapped. Ministers say the reason for the delay is that Theresa May’s new government needs time to “consider carefully” the deal thrashed out with the French firm EDF, which will build the nuclear plant, before agreeing to a project that will add £30 billion to household fuel bills over 35 years.

This desire for further scrutiny is understandable and in keeping with Mrs May’s reputation for thorough analysis of the facts before making decisions. Critics hope the huge costs, doubts about the technology, and the emergence of alternative power sources will convince Mrs May to veto Hinkley Point. That would be a shame. If the obstacles can be overcome, the plant will bring 25,000 jobs, clean energy and important European investment into this country.

More important, the Hinkley conundrum illustrates the need for more vision and decisiveness in government. The argument in favour of Hinkley is more pressing because dithering on energy policy over decades has left the country facing potential power shortages in the years to come. As BA supremo Willie Walsh points out today, there has been the same indecision over Heathrow. Whether Hinkley goes ahead or not, what this country requires is clear decision-making. We hope Mrs May will deliver that.