Hinkley Point nuclear power station: Whitehall officials 'exploring ways UK could pull out of deal'
Theresa May's administration called an unexpected halt to the project amid security and viability concerns

Joe Watts

Artists impression of Hinkley Point PA

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Westminster sources told The Independent civil servants are looking to see if there is any loophole, clause or issue in contracts yet to be signed that allow the Government to pull back without huge loss and while also saving face.

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“They are looking for anything that will allow the Government to withdraw and also allow the Chinese to withdraw while also saving face.”

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It followed claims that the price promised for Hinkley’s electricity at £92.50 per MWh, more than double the wholesale price, was too expensive.

The two new reactors that would be built at Hinkley are also of unproven design, with the two being constructing elsewhere beset by budget overruns and delays.

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Nick Timothy, a senior adviser to Mrs May previously warned that China “could use their role to build weaknesses into computer systems which will allow them to shut down Britain’s energy production at will.”

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EDF may also have problems fulfilling its end of any agreement. The company’s finance director Thomas Piquemal resigned earlier this year, fearing Hinkley could lead to the firm’s insolvency....