Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Adrian Sanders and John Hayes

Thursday 14th March 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Adrian Sanders (Torbay) (LD)]

T9. Many of my constituents are concerned about fracking, but I am not aware of any applications for fracking in the south Devon area. Can the Minister reassure my constituents that the Government are not aware of any such applications?

[Mr Hayes]

As the hon. Gentleman will know, we have established an office for unconventional gas and oil precisely in order to co-ordinate such matters. It is absolutely right for us to explore this opportunity, which could prove very fruitful, but we must do so in a safe and secure way, and a way that encourages communities to understand the benefits that it can bring them as well as the whole nation.