THE Government announced its new energy policy this week, saying that Britain needs more nuclear power stations to keep the lights on in future. It's a difficult issue, with strong feelings on both sides

THE Government announced its new energy policy this week, saying that Britain needs more nuclear power stations to keep the lights on in future. It's a difficult issue, with strong feelings on both sides. But behind the shouting about nuclear power, there's a quiet consensus about renewable energy. More and more people believe Britain's energy has to be greener in future.It's not just a dry academic debate either. If we carry on as we are, global warming and rising sea levels could swamp Weston, since most of the town and many nearby villages are at sea level already. That's why the debate about the Severn Barrage is going to hot up in future. Supporters say it's a great source of renewable energy, with no carbon emissions to cause global warming, no risk of nuclear accidents or radioactive waste to bury for millions of years, and stronger sea defences to stop Weston flooding in future too. But there could be problems as well. Some environmentalists worry that a barrage could destroy the Severn estuary's delicate ecology, including important bird feeding grounds. Others disagree, saying that some types of barrage would let the mud and silt settle out, creating clearer water and a richer wildlife habitat. A third group says a barrage would turn Weston's seafront and Sand Bay into fields, because the tide would never come all the way in again.The barrage would certainly change Weston forever, for better or worse. That means we've all got a stake in it, and I need to know how you feel about it. So whether you're a passionate supporter or a diehard opponent, I want to hear from you. You can vote on my website at www.johnpenroseMP.com or write to my office in Weston. Either way, I'll make sure that Weston's voice is heard in Westminster.