Fylde MP Mark Menzies has backed calls for ‘incentives’ for communities affected by shale gas exploration.
Speaking after Chancellor George Osborne announced his budget, which included a boost for the shale gas industry, Mr Menzies said he was pleased to see steps being taken to ensure the practice was safe.
Concerns have been raised about pollution and small earth tremors linked to the method.
Mr Menzies said: “I have always said that if any activity is to go ahead then it should only be if it is regulated and safe. I was pleased to see that going ahead when I attended a meeting to set up the Office of Unconventional Gas and Oil recently.
“The remit of that office is still being established and I continue to call on the department to ensure independent experts are involved throughout the process.
“During the budget it was good the Chancellor talked about planning regimes and ensuring local community involvement in any decisions.
“I have also said that if natural gas extraction does go ahead in Fylde, benefits should go to local communities so was happy to hear that there would be an announcement on this in the summer.”
Comments