Fracking

Bowland basin in the North of England holds about 40 trillion cubic metres of gas, but questions remain over how much is recoverable

Reports suggest survey will show reserves are significantly higher than previously thought, sparking a fresh row between shale gas supporters and opponents

Balcombe site in West Sussex to require mining waste and radioactive substances permits

Centrica in talks with leading fracking company over purchase of stake in Bowland shale in north-west England

Green groups dismiss Institute of Directors report claiming onshore drilling will drive economic growth and tax revenues

Over 330 exploration licences for onshore oil and gas granted, but minister insists 'robust regulation' will govern exploitation of reserves

But scientists at Durham University raise concerns over risk of faulty wells contaminating local water supplies

Energy minister John Hayes does not say whether handouts should come from taxpayer or fracking companies

Green groups warn against huge shale oil risks as report finds it could comprise 12 per cent of oil production in 2035

Up to nine per cent of greenhouse gas produced from Utah field found to be escaping into the atmosphere