In recent days, the fragility of our energy supply has been horribly exposed.

Yet, the headlong rush to decarbonize our economy, impoverishing us all in the process, continues.

As an island nation, and strategically, if for no other reason, we must be able to keep the lights on and our economy rolling.

A shortage of fuel due to insufficient HGV drivers, soaring gas prices and a belligerent France threatening to cut our electricity supply have focused minds.

Resilient, we clearly are not.

All this after countless warnings, which governments of all colours have ignored.

While I support renewables, an over reliance on them has left us vulnerable.

Since 2020, they have provided 40 per cent of our energy, using gas to bridge the gap.

But nature is not necessarily reliable, with a lack of wind causing an energy shortfall this summer.

And, following an ill-judged decision to close our biggest gas storage facilities, we now find ourselves competing in a market where demand has gone through the roof.

The situation is so desperate that we’ve had to re-light two coal fired power stations.

Foolishly, we have forsaken the vast, untapped, shale gas resources and thumped fracking, which has transformed the USA’s reliance on oil, into the long grass.

And, in a fit of self-harm, we import coal for essential industry rather than mine our own, while our biggest power station runs on wood from America.

If we are to truly become ‘global Britain’, we really must get a pragmatic grip on our energy supplies.

A sensible and workable balance is needed, with more nuclear in the mix.

Green technology is crucial, yes, but not at the expense of our economy.

RICHARD DRAX

SOUTH DORSET MP