The Government faces a rethink on its decision to back the building of nuclear power stations after eco-group Greenpeace scored a court victory today.

The High Court in London ruled that the Government's consultation process before making the decision last year was "seriously flawed" and "procedurally unfair".

He granted Greenpeace an order quashing the decision as "unlawful" and the judgment is expected to result in a fresh public consultation.

Greenpeace accused the Government of reneging on its vow to carry out "the fullest consultation" before making a decision.

It complained that the Government failed to present clear proposals and information on key issues surrounding a new generation of nuclear power stations, such as disposal of radioactive waste and the costs of new build.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling, contesting the judicial review, argued that the energy review was only part of an ongoing process which would ensure full consultation.