Ministers approves gas fracking in Lancashire

The government has approved the resumption of shale gas extraction through fracking in Lancashire.

Previously the controversial technique was banned due to test-drilling causing two small earthquakes, halting the actions of gas company Cuadrilla in 2011.

Now the prohibition has been lifted, the firm can continue its operations in the county, although energy secretary Ed Davey has insisted it will have to undergo regular seismic risk assessment.

Controls include reviewing any fracking before it begins to assess seismic risk and faults; submitting a fracking plan to the Energy Department to establish how risks will be dealt with; seismic monitoring at all points during the procedure; and a traffic light system to categorise levels of seismic activity.

At present Cuadrilla is the only firm to apply for the exploratory drilling licence, but others firms could also move forward.

Fracking is widespread in the US, where it has brought down energy prices, but government advisers have said this it is unlikely to have the same impact in the UK.

The Committee on Climate Change has even said that having a gas-focused energy strategy may cause average household bills to grow by £600 by 2020, rather than the £100 increase that is likely if the UK focuses on renewable energy.

In order to achieve substantially lower prices, the rest of Europe will have to get behind it too.

It will, however, offer the UK extra energy security, with less liquefied gas being imported from Qatar and Russia.

"Shale gas represents a promising new potential energy resource for the UK. It could contribute significantly to our energy security, reducing our reliance on imported gas, as we move to a low carbon economy," said Mr Davey.

"My decision is based on the evidence. It comes after detailed study of the latest scientific research available and advice from leading experts in the field."

Claire Manning