Austria to Sue if EU Regulator Clears UK Nuclear Plan
Austria will take the European Commission to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) if it approves Britain's plans for a 16 billion-pound ($26 billion) nuclear power plant, a spokesman for the chancellor said on Sunday. The deal to pay a guaranteed price for the power produced in the plant faces opposition from a quarter of EU policymakers, who want to overturn approval from the top European regulator. A vote is expected on Wednesday. The project, to be built by French utility EDF at Hinkley Point in southwest England, is crucial for Britain's plan to replace a fifth of its ageing nuclear power and coal plants over the coming decade while reducing carbon emissions. France sees it as a major export contract that will boost its nuclear industry.
New EC Commissioner for Transport Named
New EC President-designate Jose Manuel Barroso has selected Jacques Barrot of France to serve as Vice President, Commissioner for Transport. The current portfolio for Energy and Transport is being divided into two separate portfolios. The Barroso Commission will take office on 1 November. (HK Law)
EU Says Ships Should Cut Emissions
European Union officials said the shipping sector should have to live up to similar greenhouse gas emission targets as aircraft and automobiles, according to an AP report. Joe Borg, the EU's fisheries and maritime affairs commissioner, said ships should be included in pollution cutting programs as part of a more environmentally friendly maritime policy the bloc intends to develop in the years ahead. Borg said EU officials were already in discussions with the shipping industry to see how they could reduce carbon dioxide emissions from ships. These include looking at cleaner fuels and encouraging ships to use electricity while they are in port, rather than keeping their engines running on oil and other fuels while idle.
