GORDON HENDERSON MP

23rd May 2011
MP asks for assurances to set up wind turbine factory

Local MP, Gordon Henderson last week (19th May) asked Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change, Charles Hendry, if he would give assurances that Danish company, Vestas, will be able to go ahead with their plans for a wind turbine factory on Sheppey.

This parliamentary question was asked after Vestas announced last week its intention to set up a wind turbine factory in Mr Henderson’s constituency, which will create 2,000 much-needed jobs.

The full parliamentary question and answer given by Mr Hendry is below:

Gordon Henderson (Sittingbourne and Sheppey) (Con): My hon. Friend will be aware of the good news that the Danish company, Vestas, has announced its intention to set up a wind turbine factory in my constituency, which will create 2,000 much-needed jobs. However, the project is conditional on a number of factors, including the Government delivering stability in the market, and long-term political and regulatory certainty. What assurances can my hon. Friend give Vestas to help us seal the deal and turn that good news into very good news?

Charles Hendry: My hon. Friend highlights one of the investment opportunities that is coming through as a result of our approach of wanting a supply chain industry to develop for the offshore wind sector in this country. That news is very encouraging. I reassure Vestas that the area of Sheerness has a dedicated and able work force, an absolute champion in its Member of Parliament, and a supportive Government who want to see this matter move forward.