Cardiff has played host to one of a series of stakeholder events being held to capture the views of green groups, energy companies, businesses, consumer groups, unions, faith groups and academics on the future of nuclear energy.

The stakeholder meetings are part of the Government’s discussion with the public about the country’s future needs and are the latest in an extensive programme of nationwide consultative events.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks, said: "Keeping the lights on for the decades ahead while also cutting carbon emissions is one of the biggest challenges of our time. The Government’s Energy White Paper sets out a range of responses, including increased energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage and more renewable generation such as offshore wind farms.

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"The Government also believes that new nuclear power stations should be an option for energy companies in the future, but we want to consult as widely as possible on this before making a decision."

He continued: "This is a big decision with consequences either way. It's critical that we listen to all the views and get it right."

The consultation is running for 20 weeks and is significantly longer than standard government consultants. The Government has commissioned a range of specialist organisations to conduct and evaluate the consultation.

In total it is expected that 1,800 people will be directly consulted at events throughout the campaign. All responses to the consultation will be published and the Government will make a decision on the issue of nuclear power later this year.

(JM)