Over 10,000 have say on allowing fracking

MORE than 10,000 people have responded to a consultation on whether to allow fracking.

The SNP began seeking public opinion on the issue two months ago.

At Holyrood yesterday, Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse said the Scottish Government would respect the will of parliament when it makes its decision by the end of this year.

A moratorium on fracking was imposed in 2015 to allow detailed research on the matter.

Many in the SNP favour an outright ban – which is supported by Labour, the Lib Dems and the Greens. But the Tories say fracking could provide an economic boom.

Mr Wheelhouse said: ‘We are adopting a carefully considered process for reaching a decision on the future of unconventional oil and gas that ensures the views of the public, the evidence base and views of parliament are fully considered. Once the consultation closes and the results have been independently analysed and published, I reiterate our commitment to present our recommendation to parliament and provide an opportunity to vote on it.’

He added: ‘We will respect the will of the parliament on this issue.’

Scottish Tory energy spokesman Alexander Burnett said: ‘We are none the wiser as to when a final decision will be made.

‘The SNP needs to start thinking about the long-term economic consequences of blocking an industry that provides an opportunity to reduce emissions, create jobs and increase our security of supply.’