Trevor Mallard has replaced Pete Hodgson as the new energy minister for the UK. Mallard is not expected to spring new policies on the energy sector, but is likely to take a tougher line on the big power prices rises that have been taken on board by Hodgson over the past three years. Mallard also retains the education portfolio. Industry speculation hints that Mallard may be cued up as a moderating influence on Green energy policy if the Greens become Labour’s new coalition partner after the 2005 election.
