Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what his Department's policy is on hydraulic fracturing; and what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on the adequacy of planning regulations for hydraulic fracturing and coal bed methane extraction.

The UK Government supports shale gas exploration to determine the potential of the industry. Shale gas could create a new British industry, provide more jobs and make us less reliant on imports from abroad. However, we are clear: shale gas operations will only take place in a manner which is safe for the environment and local communities.

Any company looking to develop shale will need to obtain all the necessary permissions, including planning and environmental permits, before hydraulic fracturing can be carried out.

We have an effective planning system to consider and scrutinise all oil and gas development in this country. Delivering the Government’s ambitions requires close partnership working with other Government Departments, including DCLG, as well as planning authorities, the industry, regulators and local communities.