WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones has raised concerns about comments made on fracking laws.The comments were made by energy minister Claire Perry which say that the government is considering lifting regulations governing the level of seismic activity considered safe to allow drilling.
The minister said, in a letter to a fellow Tory MP, that the regulations are, at present, “explicitly cautious” and that they could be lifted “without compromising” effectiveness.
Ms Jones said: “I have said before that I fear it likely that the government will make it easier for drilling companies to be able to conduct fracking operations and this latest statement proves this to be the case.
“A series of tremors, seven years ago, prompted tough regulations which requires the suspension of fracking when low levels of seismic activity are detected. The government now seem to be saying that the trigger levels can be adjusted upwards.
“Any relaxation of the regulations will speed up exploratory fracking which is in line with the government’s determination to push fracking at any cost.
“In the past Tories here in Warrington have welcomed fracking companies saying the town would be open for their business. I think we need to say no to fracking and I call, again, on the council to declare itself an anti-fracking borough.”
MP Jones has consistently opposed fracking in parliament and believes there should be a moratorium on the procedure because a case has not been adequately made for it and the technology does not have sufficient safeguards.
