A new authority will oversee the decommissioning of Britain's nuclear power stations under measures contained in the Queen's Speech.

The pledge formed the central part of the Energy Bill announced in Labour's seventh legislative session.

"My government will introduce legislation on energy matters, to establish a Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and to promote secure, sustainable supplies and a safer environment," the Queen announced.

It new body will oversee the shutting down of now-privatised nuclear energy plants and create a single UK wholesale energy marketplace.

And in the wake of September 11 and increased terrorism fears, policing of nuclear sites will be overseen by a new Civil Nuclear Police Authority.

The Department of Trade and Industry will also use the bill to create the legal framework for developing more offshore wind farms.

Following the debacle of British Energy having to be bailed out by the government, the bill also makes provision for the government to step in where suppliers are facing insolvency to ensure energy is maintained.