Armed guards to protect power stations from terror attacks

The Counter-Terrorism Bill - which is unveiled today and also contains the contentious proposal to hold suspects without charge for 42 days - will extend the protection currently given to nuclear sites.

Gas companies will be expected to pay some of the costs of providing the roundthe-clock security - which comes amid fears that Al Qaeda will try to attack infrastructure targets in Britain.

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During the Operation Crevice trial of five men convicted of planning deadly bomb attacks in Britain, it emerged that gas stations had been a key target.

The 650-strong Civil Nuclear Constabulary - whose officers all have firearms training - are likely to be given responsibility for the crucial job of protecting the major gas-fired power stations, as well as pipelines.

They currently guard civil nuclear sites, such as Sellafield, as well as nuclear materials which are being transported.

Eight natural gas terminals - where pipelines surface - are top of the list to be protected.

Tory MP Patrick Mercer, who has advised Gordon Brown on counter-terrorism measures, said the plans should be put in place quickly.

He said it was "appalling" it had taken so long to implement improved security in the wake of the Crevice trial, which ended in April last year.

Temporary arrangements have been in place at some sites, using Ministry of Defence Police.

The move to full-time protection is likely to be welcomed by MPs.

However, power companies are expected to warn that the cost of guarding the sites will force them to increase home energy bills.