Reform UK’s coal mining plans branded ‘fantasy politics’ 

Proposals to revive coal mining in Wales have sparked a political row, with the Welsh Liberal Democrats accusing Reform UK of promoting “fantasy” policies that would threaten jobs, energy bills and the environment.

The criticism follows comments by Reform candidate Ben Hodge-McKenna, who suggested Wales could reopen coal extraction using modern, “safer” technologies to help meet future energy needs.

The idea echoes previous remarks by Reform leader Nigel Farage, who has said coal mining could return to Wales, including comments about sending young people back into the industry.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats said the proposals showed the party was “stuck in the past” and offering false hope to communities that need long-term economic investment.

The party also pointed to Reform’s previous support for fracking, arguing it demonstrated a pattern of backing “outdated and unpopular fossil fuel policies”.

They warned that fracking carries risks including earthquakes and water contamination, and has faced strong opposition across Wales.

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds said the proposals would fail to deliver meaningful economic benefits.

“Reform’s plan to reopen coal mines is pure fantasy politics,” she said.

“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.”

‘Soundbites’

She added that communities with a coal mining heritage deserved “serious economic strategies” rather than what she described as “headline-chasing soundbites”.

The intervention comes as energy policy and economic regeneration become key battlegrounds ahead of the Senedd election.

Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, Mr Hodge-McKenna said Wales should consider making use of what he described as some of the “highest quality coal” in the world.

“I don’t think anybody’s talking about going back to the 70s or 80s and reopening mines in the conditions that they were previously,” he said.

“But if there are commercial opportunities to enjoy the natural resources that we have then we shouldn’t be automatically closed off to any options.”

He also argued that Wales’ contribution to global emissions was “minuscule”, suggesting climate concerns should not prevent economic development.

Economic realities

However, critics say such arguments ignore both environmental responsibilities and economic realities.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats warned that focusing on coal or fracking could divert investment away from sectors where Wales has stronger long-term potential, including offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, tidal energy 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.