Jeremy Corbyn speaks out on Heysham 3 and housing

The Labour leader was asked about plans for Heysham 3 while on a visit to Lancaster University.

“There has got to be a planning process,” he said.

“I recognise the jobs need. I recognise we need a mix of energy.

“I strongly support green energy but you have to have a base of electricity production otherwise you would end up with no supply.

“I am concerned about nuclear safety and waste, and that has to be addressed.

“I am also concerned that nuclear energy clean-up costs will be dumped on the British public rather than the company that’s doing it.”

The Prime Minister David Cameron recently spoke about Heysham 3 in the House of Commons.

He said: “The important road works that are going to open up the port...are going to help when we bring in the new nuclear power station.”

Mr Cameron’s comments were seen as a huge vote of confidence for the building of the third station.

Heysham 3 is on a list of new nuclear power stations to be built across the country, although it is not expected for at least 10 years.

Mr Corbyn was also asked about housing targets which have revealed 13,000 new homes must be built in the Lancaster district before 2031, and the concerns of people living in rural villages who don’t want houses built on greenfield sites close to them.

“I would give priority to brownfield sites,” he said.

“But we have to face the fact there is a big housing crisis in the UK.

“We will only address it if we invest in council housing that’s secure and affordable, and good quality.

“Villages can’t just be the preserve of those who are able to afford to live in them. There has to be some building in these villages and job creation.

“I also believe that all new buildings should have solar panels.”

Mr Corbyn was at the university to meet with Student’s Union officers for talks on proposed changes to the electoral registration system, which could mean students fall off the electoral roll.

He was accompanied by Cat Smith, MP for Lancaster.