The potential for nuclear power to continue contributing to Scotland’s clean electricity generation and the local economy in East Lothian has been highlighted by Martin Whitfield MSP during a debate at Holyrood.

The topic of the debate was the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy made at COP28 last year in the UAE and signed by 22 countries including the UK, USA, France, Japan, the Netherlands, Canada, Poland, Sweden and South Korea.

The declaration notes the key role of nuclear energy for achieving global net zero targets by 2050 and recognises the importance of the application of nuclear science and technology to continue contributing to the monitoring of climate change and the tackling of its impacts.

In his speech during the debate Mr Whitfield talked about the contribution made by Torness Power Station and its workforce. He also argued that the Scottish Government should reconsider its opposition to a Torness B station to continue generating nuclear power after the existing plant is decommissioned.

Speaking after the debate, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“This debate on the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy was timely as it presented parliament with an opportunity to explore what others around the globe are doing on nuclear power and to consider options for the continuation of nuclear output here in Scotland. 

“I was pleased to speak up once again for the contribution made by Torness and its workforce and to highlight its importance in generating clean electricity as well as supporting hundreds of skilled jobs and apprenticeships.

“We have significant knowledge and expertise on nuclear energy here in East Lothian. It makes no sense to throw that away when so many other countries are looking to expand their nuclear capacity and reap the benefits of the clean, reliable electricity it can provide.”

The full text of the debate, including Mr Whitfield’s speech, can be found here.