Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether she is taking steps to discourage fossil fuel extraction in the north of England; and if she will make a statement.

As we continue to move to a low carbon economy we need to ensure we have a balanced energy mix so we have a reliable, clean and affordable energy system. This means that in the medium term there will be a role for some fossil fuels. The Government has been clear that the development of domestic energy sources must be safe and environmentally sound. As such, we have put in place a robust regulatory regime which provides a comprehensive framework for exploration and production activities.