Welsh Lib Dems slam Reform’s “fantasy” coal plans as a threat to jobs, bills and climate
The Welsh Liberal Democrats have hit out at comments from Reform UK figures suggesting coal mining could be revived in Wales, branding the proposal “economically illiterate and environmentally reckless”.
The intervention comes after Reform UK candidate Ben Hodge-McKenna claimed that reopening coal extraction using “safer” technologies could help meet Wales’ future energy needs. Nigel Farage previously also suggested sending young Welsh people back down the mines.
The Welsh Liberal Democrats said the comments showed Reform was “stuck in the past” and offering false hope to communities that need real investment and long-term economic security.
The party also highlighted that Reform has previously said it would open up the country for fracking, arguing that this shows a pattern of “doubling down on outdated and unpopular fossil fuel policies”. They warned that fracking can trigger earthquakes and risks polluting local water sources, posing a direct threat to communities and the environment, and has consistently faced strong public opposition across Wales.
The Welsh Liberal Democrats argued that trying to revive coal or introduce fracking would not bring sustainable jobs or lower bills, but instead risk diverting investment away from industries where Wales has genuine competitive advantages, such as floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, tidal power and green manufacturing.
They also rejected claims that Wales’ emissions are too small to matter, arguing that leadership on clean energy is essential both economically and environmentally.
They added that communities with a proud industrial heritage, including former coalfield areas, deserve serious economic strategies for regeneration, not “headline-chasing soundbites” based on nothing but fantasy economics.
Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds said:
“Reform’s plan to reopen coal mines is pure fantasy politics. It won’t cut bills, it won’t deliver lasting jobs, and it won’t stand up to even the most basic economic scrutiny.
“The fact they also want to open Wales up to fracking tells you everything you need to know. Fracking would destroy our pristine countryside, can cause earthquakes and risks contaminating local water supplies, yet Reform seems willing to ignore those dangers.
“This is a party doubling down on the failed energy policies of the past, with no serious plan for the future.
“Wales cannot build its future by trying to relive its past. Communities that once powered the industrial revolution deserve better than being sold false promises about industries that are in irreversible decline.
“Instead of chasing yesterday’s solutions, we should be investing in the industries of the future and giving Welsh workers the secure, well-paid jobs they deserve.”
ENDS