Witham MP Priti Patel has slammed arrogant Labour Ministers for refusing to engage in discussions over the development of an offshore gird instead of pursuing the National Grid’s plans to cover the countryside in pylons and overhead powerlines in the East of England. Priti had written to junior energy minister Michael Shanks MP to request a meeting following the decision taken by the government to cease work on looking to coordinate offshore wind farms to reduce onshore infrastructure.
However, in his reply, the Minister failed to accept this offer and refused to review the decision. The letter was received on the day that the Secretary of State for Energy, Ed Miliband MP, claimed in a speech that the Government would “take on” those with concerns and criticisms of the Labour Government’s plans.
Priti said: “The plans to cover the countryside and blight communities across the East of England are widely opposed. Farmland will be devastated and community facilities, like White Notley Football Club, will face substantial damage. Those affected will be appalled by the arrogance of Labour ministers who are refusing to consider the alternatives or meet to discuss them. Local campaigners have been putting forward alternative options and it is disrespectful for Labour minister to act in such a dismissive and arrogant way.”
Priti added:
“We all want to see an increase in renewable energy from offshore wind farms and are proud that we are world leaders in the East of England. But that’s why we need to develop an offshore grid which will carry longer term benefits. I will keep on raising this issue and will not be silenced by this appalling Labour Government.”
