East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson has called on the UK Government to make a firm commitment that GB Energy will not fund a proposed offshore wind farm near the Giant’s Causeway, warning it could cause serious harm to one of Northern Ireland's key tourist attractions.

Speaking in the House of Commons during Northern Ireland Questions, the DUP MP raised concerns about the potential impact of the development on the World Heritage Site, accusing the Government of failing to provide a clear stance on the matter.

"As part of the Government's pursuit of net zero and with the claim that energy prices will be reduced, they have established GB Energy, an expensive quango with £8.3billion of funding," Mr Wilson said.

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"One of the projects which is likely to apply to GB Energy is the proposed off-shore windfarm, adjacent to the Giants Causeway. That part of our coastline is a key jewel in our tourism industry and it would inevitably have a very damaging impact on the World Heritage Site at the Causeway."

The East Antrim representative expressed disappointment at the Government's response, claiming ministers had failed to provide reassurance that the publicly funded energy body would not support the controversial project.

"It is disappointing that the Government could not give a straight answer today that GB Energy would not support such a project which would effectively sacrifice our tourism industry in pursuit of the government’s plans," he said.

Mr Wilson went on to call for a firm commitment from the Government, highlighting the wider economic implications for the region.

"Given the economic damage already imposed by this Government there needs to be a clear commitment that they would not oversee further damage through GB Energy funding such a development," he added.