wa orders town's power be cut

The Western Australian Government has told Western Power to cut the supply of electricity to the Pilbara town of Wittenoom from next July.

WA Energy Minister Alan Carpenter says the move is in line with the Government's policy to phase down activities in the former asbestos-mining town.

Fewer than 20 people remain in Wittenoom, which has left a legacy of asbestos-related illness as a result of mining operations between 1943 and 1966.

Mr Carpenter has told WA Parliament that he has directed Western Power not to seek a licence to continue to operate in Wittenoom from next July.

"Decommissioning and removal of the power station and supply infrastructure will commence from this date," he said.

"Mr Speaker, there are clearly identified and well-documented public health risks associated with exposure to asbestos in the township of Wittenoom as evidenced by the town's long and tragic history."

But Wittenoom resident Lorraine Thomas says she will not leave the town despite the threat of cutting power.

"I have no intention of leaving at this stage," she said.

"I do not believe what the Minister is saying and it's a scare tactic that they're using to try and make us move."

http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200511/s1500790.htm