I READ with interest the latest report regarding the fact a recent report by an energy expert suggests a barrage is not the appropriate way to generate electricity from the Severn. This is based upon the cost issue insofar as this structure is concerned. Some three or four years ago I wrote to your paper highlighting the fact one of the leading experts in this field of expertise had reported to the Wye Valley Preservation Trust.

Their conclusions were in advance of the recent study (and confirmed by the latter) that a similar level of power could be generated by use of the tidal power generating it from booms from headlands etc. Whilst Peter Hain may be an expert upon soil excavation, one questions his interest in water!

Vincent Kenneally Portycarne Street Monmouthshire