Fracking and other Unconventional Fossil Fuel Extraction

The Green Liberal Democrats campaign for the UK to be leaders in the transition to an economy that is environmentally sustainable. There is a strong desire among environmentalists for the banning or severe restraint of "Fracking". However Local Minerals Planning Authorities (Unitary or County Councils) have to judge planning applications in the light of local plans that reflect central Government policy and that have been approved by the Minister of State.

Councils cannot disregard Government policy. Were they to attempt to do so, they would be liable to compensate fracking companies for any delays caused.

Existing Lib Dem Federal Policy on Fracking is given in the context of electricity generation, in Federal Conference Report, 14 18 September 2013 [1] A motion tightening up Federal policy on fracking was submitted for inclusion in the 2015 Spring Conference agenda but was rejected under the 2 year since previous discussion rule. Look out for the opportunity for your local party to back its selection for debate as an emergency motion at the Spring Conference or at the Autumn Conference.