House of Commons · Westminster Hall
07 May 2025 · 5 other contributors · 4,177 words
Opened by Llinos Medi PC Ynys Môn
Responding minister: Michael Shanks
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Llinos Medi raised concerns about new nuclear projects: wylfa in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The Government should commit to Wylfa as a site for new nuclear projects before the opportunity is lost. There needs to be clarity on how discussions with developers are progressing.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Wylfa is the best site in Europe for new nuclear energy projects, but it has been overlooked due to lack of clarity and urgency from the Government. Two reactors were constructed at Wylfa in 1971 and generated electricity until 2015 when both reached the end of their operating life, followed by plans being paused and scrapped.
Asked if Plaid Cymru was playing politics regarding Wylfa, noting that the previous leader of the party came out against it.
Committed to nuclear as an essential component of reaching clean energy goals, highlighting its role in ensuring capability and capacity with regard to energy resilience.
Inquired about future plans for Trawsfynydd and discussions with the Welsh Government regarding potential use for advanced modular reactors or radioisotopes. Asked for an assurance on continuous decommissioning at Trawsfynydd, highlighting the current provision of 276 well-paid jobs and the potential future economic opportunities. Asked for information on updates on sitings for small modular reactors (SMRs).
The history of Wylfa is important to our energy story, but so is the future. The site's potential has long been recognised and developing it can create skills and well-paid jobs. The government is determined to enable faster and more sustainable nuclear project development around the country.
Reaffirmed the government's ambition for new nuclear energy projects, promising to provide benefits for local communities through supply chains and construction. Acknowledged past delays but expressed confidence in future progress.
Government Response
Michael ShanksThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero
Emphasised the importance of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix, highlighting Wylfa's historical role and potential future economic opportunities. Acknowledged the expertise and skills in Wales and discussed the importance of continuous decommissioning.