Business Secretary John Hutton made the expected announcement in a statement to MPs. He said he was inviting energy companies to bring forward plans to build and operate new nuclear power stations.

Hutton said the new stations must be built to ensure future security of supply and help produce a balanced energy mix.

The plans, which could yet face lengthy legal action before new sites can be built, have faced criticism from anti-nuclear campaigners, including Greenpeace.

John Hutton  said:
"Giving the go ahead today that new nuclear power should play a role in providing the UK with clean, secure and affordable energy is in our country's vital long term interest.

"Set against the challenges of climate change and security of supply, the evidence in support of new nuclear power stations is compelling. We should positively embrace the opportunity of delivering this important part of our energy policy.

"I therefore invite energy companies to bring forward plans to build and operate new nuclear power stations." 

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