Friends of the Earth has described the government as "pro-nuclear" after a review of Britain's energy needs over the next half century.

The Cabinet Office's performance and innovations unit is set to conclude that 15 new nuclear plants will be required as "insurance" for a time when Britain becomes a net importer of oil and gas.

The nuclear industry could also be exempted from the Climate Change Levy.

Tony Juniper of FoE said the plans "beggar belief" given that there were alternatives available from wind, wave and solar power.