Labour MEP victory on "fracking" - 2012-09-19

"We should make sure that strict regulation is in place before - and not after - shale gas development starts," said Labour's Linda McAvan after winning a vote in the European Parliament's Environment Committee today.

"Unlike in theUSA, where they went ahead without first making sure "fracking" would be safe, we need to ensure there are  robust rules to protect health and the environment before we start fracking. It's already caused a minor earthquake in Lancashire.  

"We want to make sure that any shale gas company which is looking to operate in the EU knows that they will have to meet the highest environmental standards.  

"There should be a ban on fracking in sensitive areas, and all fracking should be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment - which would also guarantee proper public participation in planning decisions made by local authorities.  

"The industry  should be forced to use the best available technologies - such as methane capture.  

"We hope that the British Government will take our recommendations on board as they decide whether or not to give fracking inLancashirethe green light," Linda McAvan concluded. 

ENDS

Any queries to David Poyser 0032 479 790053 

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