18.10.06
Rotherham to host national energy debate
ROTHERHAM is to host a high profile national seminar to examine the future direction of the UK’s energy policy.
The one-day event could be the last chance for the public and interest groups to let the Government know their thoughts about its decision to support nuclear power following the recent Energy Review.
Headed ‘What Next for UK Energy Policy? Achieving Security and Sustainability’, the seminar will explore the energy challenges facing the United Kingdom and the steps which are being proposed by the Government to address this.
Councillor Ken Wyatt, Rotherham Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for procurement, said: “This conference is open to anyone wishing to learn more about the future of this country’s energy policy. An economically viable and sustainable energy policy is a must for the UK, especially in respect of the challenge world climate change continues to pose.
“This seminar will provide an excellent opportunity to hear the views of a respected panel of experts and to question some of the leading professionals in the energy field.
“Importantly, the comments and views we receive will be forwarded to Government as part of their consultation on their recent decision to back a new generation of nuclear power stations over other forms of energy – including cleaner coal technologies.
“The cut off date for the consultation date is 31 October so this is really the last opportunity to have our voices heard.”
The seminar will explore the non-nuclear options including renewables, clean coal technologies and the role of the deep mined coal industry in the UK. Featured speakers include representatives from the Treasury; the Department of Trade and Industry; Friends of the Earth; the Trade Union Congress and coal industry representatives.
The event is sponsored by the Yorkshire Coal Task Force, Nuclear Free Local Authorities and Rotherham Borough Council, and is taking place at Rotherham Town Hall on Friday 27 October.
For further information about the seminar – which costs £35 to attend – please contact Roger Kojan, Yorkshire Coal Task Force, on 0781 4903444, or Stewart Kemp, Nuclear Free Local Authorities on 07771 930196.
To book a place, please contact Kate Taylor at [email protected] or on 01709 822789.
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