THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (NIA) accused Greenpeace of "irresponsible and undemocratic" behaviour after the group revealed plans to "sabotage" and disrupt nuclear sites in the UK.

Following a break-in and blockade at Flamanville, Normandy, where a new nuclear power station is under construction, Greenpeace threatened to sabotage UK sites if new nuclear build goes ahead. 

NIA spokesman John McNamara said the threats showed the group's disregard for democratic process and for the safety of their own members and that of construction workers.

"We are in the process of a very open and inclusive debate about how the UK achieves a low-carbon economy and nuclear is at the heart of that debate."

"These actions and threats expose Greenpeace's tactics. They want to be involved in the democratic discussion - but if they don't like the outcome they take the law into their own hands."

Nuclear power provides clean, low-carbon electricity in large quantities and is back on the worldwide energy agenda as an important tool in the fight against climate change. A massive UN-backed report compiled by more than 2,500 scientists and economists from more that 100 countries supports expansion of nuclear power. 

"That these individuals put themselves and others at risk by breaking into a construction facility shows no regard for democratic debate and public safety, just a single-minded desire to promote their own agenda.