United Nations report warns over fracking dangers
Anti-fracking campaigners  have welcomed a United Nations report that warns that the Government is 'flouting' its duty to protect its citizens from illegal and dangerous levels of air pollution.
It says: “Regulations on fracking are complex and split between several regulators, and do not appear to be sufficiently stringent .”
It also says that it relies too much on “self-monitoring by the oil and gas industry.”
A spokesman from the Preston New Road Action Group said: “It is significant to note that the UN’s special rapporteur highlighted Lancashire in his report.
“He also identified that the UK’s fracking regulations are ‘complex, split between several regulators and do not appear to be sufficiently stringent.’
“He indicated this would increase the risk of water pollution.
“Preston New Road Action Group have repeatedly drawn attention to the UK’s disconnected fracking regulators and potential loopholes for the industry to abuse. “Cuadrilla have already
demonstrated that they will flout the rules for their own benefit by bringing the rig onto site outside the permitted hours.”
“The UK has a strong regulatory system which provides a comprehensive regime for exploratory activities.
“It uses existing regulators with long-standing experience of regulating against different sectors in their area of specialisation.”