The Government today lifted the moratorium on the controversial practice of fracking despite objections from local authorities.
Business and Energy Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg argued that shale gas production in England was essential for the UK’s energy security in light of the Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine.
‘In light of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and weaponisation of energy, strengthening our energy security is an absolute priority, and – as the Prime Minister said – we are going to ensure the UK is a net energy exporter by 2040,’ he said.
‘To get there we will need to explore all avenues available to us through solar, wind, oil and gas production - so it’s right that we’ve lifted the pause to realise any potential sources of domestic gas.’
According to data from the climate charity Friends of the Earth, 91 local authorities in England (out of 333) currently have oil and gas exploration licences.
Mr Rees-Mogg said the new licensing round is expected to lead to over 100 new licences.
Last week, Yvonne Gagen, leader of West Lancashire Borough Council, where a fracking application was shelved in 2020, told The MJ: ‘My own personal view on fracking and Liz Truss lifting the ban is that it's wrong on every level and I am totally against fracking in West Lancashire.’
Executive member for environment at York City Council, Paula Widdowson, added: ‘Fracking poses unacceptable risks to people, the climate and the environment, bringing with it the potential threat of earthquakes, water pollution and green spaces transforming into industrial landscapes.’
In a statement issued yesterday, Friends of the Earth fracking campaigner, Danny Gross, said: ‘Shale gas extraction causes earthquakes and contributes to climate breakdown and will do almost nothing to reduce energy bills.
‘Fracking is by far the most unpopular and least effective way of generating energy in the UK and has been opposed by communities wherever it has been attempted.
‘Any attempt to water down the rules that help safeguard people from the threat of fracking will only fuel its unpopularity.’
