'TIME TO RELEASE RENEWABLE ENERGY POTENTIAL' - BURT

5.03.24pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 7th Jul 2009

Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt is backing a parliamentary motion calling on the Government to drastically increase investment in British renewable energy sources.

Speaking from Westminster, Mrs Burt said:

"Government has failed to unlock the huge potential of the renewable energy market in the UK.

"Ministers must now increase investment in renewables ahead of the release of the new 'Renewable Energy Strategy Paper', which will outline the Government's future approach to renewable energy.

"With the huge potential for tidal and wind power in the UK, we should be the world leader in renewable technology.

"It is a national scandal that after 11 years, this Government has failed to follow up its warm words with real action and investment.

"There are so many possibilities in the British Isles for effective wind and marine renewable energy sites, but Government has not taken the necessary steps to turn this potential into reality.

"Renewables can provide a safe and secure supply of energy, but this will only happen with proper Government support. This is a serious issue, and demands more serious investment. Without it this latest strategy will rightly be seen as yet more hot air from Westminster."

A recent high profile report by the Royal Society criticised the Government for failing to support the renewables industry.