THE SNP’s energy spokesman has challenged the UK Government to clarify its plans for the controversial Hinkley Point nuclear power station after it was reported that Tory ministers were prepared to pay £6 billion to continue with the project.

Theresa May left the £18bn project in doubt soon after becoming Prime Minister, when she put it on hold just hours after the French energy company behind it, EDF, said it would go ahead with the much-delayed scheme.

However, it was reported that EDF executives have said the UK Government could have to take a stake of up to £6bn in the Hinkley Point nuclear power station to avoid a “disaster” if the Chinese decide to withdraw from the project.

SNP Westminster energy spokesperson, Callum McCaig, called for clarity from the UK Government over its position on the scheme and “explain how, at a supposed time of austerity, they can find the money to throw at the nuclear white elephant”.

McCaig, said: “This just exposes the Tory hypocrisy on public spending. They impose austerity on Scotland despite the fact the Scottish people clearly rejected them, yet continually find billions for the unnecessary projects that matter to them like nuclear bombs and nuclear power.

“The Westminster Government must provide clarity on whether or not they are prepared to throw even more money at this white elephant – which industry experts have called ‘last century’s answer to this century’s energy system’.

“It would be astounding if the right-wing Tory Government were able to find £6bn to commit to this chaotic project.”

The UK’s Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark, in response, said: “The UK needs a reliable and secure energy supply and the Government believes that nuclear energy is an important part of the mix.

“The Government is now considering carefully all the component parts of this project and will make its decision in the early autumn.”