Aquind: Everything we know so far about rejection of plans for interconnector in Portsmouth - RECAP
A CROSS-Channel power cable project linked to a Conservative Party donor has been rejected by the Government.
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng decided to dismiss Aquind’s plans to provide a new electricity link between Portsmouth and Normandy in France.
The proposal was controversial, with a former energy minister having to recuse herself from the process over funding from one of the company’s owners.
Alexander Temerko, a British citizen who was born in the former Soviet Union, has donated more than £1 million to the Tories and is listed as a director of Aquind Limited.
A letter published on the Planning Inspectorate website showed Mr Kwarteng decided to “refuse development consent” having considered his obligations under the energy National Policy Statement.
Penny Mordaunt, Portsmouth North MP, said: 'We did it. When we work together we can achieve anything, despite the odds against us.
'The Secretary of States judgement shows that the need for this scheme is outweighed by the harm it would do.
'Well done Portsmouth and all who helped us in this. Very proud of you all.'
Stephen Morgan, Portsmouth South MP, added: 'The government have finally seen sense and stopped the disastrous Aquind project.
'This is a victory for the people of Portsmouth over years of uncertainty and Tory cronyism.
'I pay tribute to local campaigners who have helped me lead our city’s united opposition.
'Without our efforts, this would not have been possible. Together, we have stopped Aquind.'
We will bring you all the latest updates and reaction this evening in our live blog.
You can view the blog at the bottom of this article.