Tony Blair will face a backbench rebellion if he decides to build a new generation of nuclear power stations, a new poll has revealed.
According to a survey by MORI, which surveyed MPs from all parties on behalf of the nuclear industry, 45 per cent of the parliamentary Labour Party is against the construction of new nuclear plants.
The research also found that 45 per cent of MPs are in favour of new plants, and 41 per cent are opposed.
MORI quizzed nearly 100 MPs, including ministers, members of the shadow cabinet and the new intake over the summer.
During his party conference, the prime minister signalled that the government is seriously considering a new nuclear programme in order to combat the effects of climate change.
As part of the wider energy review, the government appears to have been persuaded that it cannot ignore nuclear energy.
But that reversal in attitudes is likely to lead to a new clash between Number 10 and Labour backbenchers.
Energy costs in the UK have soared in recent years and industry is warning that supply can only be assured by embracing a new programme of nuclear power stations.
