U.K. Utility Nationalization Plan Unveiled by Labour Party

摘要

Britain's opposition Labour Party outlined plans to nationalize large swathes of the U.K. energy industry if it wins the next general election, a move that would put government in control of the grid for the first time since 1990. The measures would put the companies that transmit power and own cables linking with markets in the European Union under the authority of ministers in London. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn would make the priority to reduce fossil fuel emissions and ensure heat and electricity flow to consumers at lower prices. Companies from SSE Plc to National Grid Plc, who have generated 13 billion pounds ($16.7 billion) in dividends for shareholders over the last five years, would be compensated with bonds at a price determined by Parliament. Prime Minister Theresa May's government said the measures would cost 100 billion pounds and result in higher taxes. Labour said the plan would be "cost neutral" to the public purse and help those who are stretched financially to pay for fuel. "Our plans see climate justice and social justice as inseparable," said Rebecca Long Bailey, a Labour member of Parliament who speaks on business, energy and industrial strategy. "It's an insult and an injustice to our people and our planet for companies operating the grid to rip customers off, line the pockets of the rich and not invest properly in renewable energy."