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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, with reference to his Department's Public Attitudes Tracker, September 2018 (Wave 27), whether he has introduced objectives for increasing the rating of shale gas in the next twelve months.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy undertakes quarterly assessments on a range of subjects and topics as part of our Public Attitudes Tracker (PAT). Questions which explore the public’s perception and understanding of shale are included as part of this. The Department has no specific objectives for increasing the ‘rating’ of shale gas in the next twelve months.

The Government understands the development of shale gas exploration and production sites is an issue which directly affects local communities and recognises the need to provide those communities with fact-based information. Therefore, the Government appointed Natascha Engel to be the first Commissioner for Shale gas in October 2018. The Commissioner is a contact point for residents, to listen to their concerns, refer them to relevant and factual research and help improve communication with regulators and industry.