12.08.13
‘Get behind fracking’ call for support
Fracking will increase employment and cut energy costs without damaging the environment, the Prime Minister has said.
Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Cameron highlighted the benefits of shale gas drilling for communities as “essential” to make the UK more energy self-sufficient. The introduction of fracking could create up to 70,000 new jobs, he added.
Environmental campaigners warn that fracking can lead to small earth tremors and water contamination, but Cameron said the process was safe if properly regulated: “The huge benefits of shale gas outweigh any very minor change to the landscape.”
Fracking could be more likely in less densely populated areas, which could mean greater exploration in the North.
But Cameron said: “It's been suggested in recent weeks that we want fracking to be confined to certain parts of Britain. This is wrong. I want all parts of our nation to share in the benefits – north or south, Conservative or Labour. We are all in this together.
“If neighbourhoods can really see the benefits – and get proper reassurance about the environment – then I don't see why fracking shouldn't get real public support.
“It's simple – gas and electric bills can go down when our home grown energy supply goes up. We're not turning our back on low-carbon energy, but these sources aren't enough – we need a mix.
“Just as with North Sea oil and gas, there could be a whole supply chain of new businesses, more investment and fresh expertise.
“International evidence shows there is no reason why the process should cause contamination of water supplies or other environmental damage, if properly regulated. We want people to get behind fracking, and a transparent planning process is an important ingredient.”
Energy firms will pay £100,000 to communities near exploratory wells, and if gas is extracted 1% of the revenue will go back to these areas. This could be used to cut council tax or invest in schools, he suggested.
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