Striking workers ‘solid’

North Sea workers were said to be “standing solid and determined” as they staged further strike action over plans to cut their pay and allowances.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union and Unite, employed by the Wood Group on Shell platforms, were involved in two three-hour stoppages yesterday. EDF has decided to press ahead with building a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point.

The French energy giant had been expected to make the final investment decision at a board meeting, clearing the way for the £18 billion project to go ahead.

Reports from Paris said the board voted by 10-7 in favour. EDF in the UK made no immediate comment.

John Sauven, Greenpeace executive director, said: “This deal was more riven with dissension in the EDF board than anyone expected. It’s unprecedented division and far closer than predicted.

“Countless experts have warned that for British families this power station will be terrible value for money.

“This is a bitter pill to swallow for hard up people who have been told that the Government is trying to keep bills down while dealing with energy security and lowering carbon emissions.

“Today’s decision doesn’t prove the UK is open for business post Brexit – it just shows the Hinkley deal became too big to fail in the eyes of British and French politicians.”

A director opposed to the construction of Hinkley Point C resigned before the board met.

Gerard Magnin said in his resignation letter that Hinkley Point was “very risky”.