National debate on fracking begins

The are some groups who oppose the use of fracking. Picture: Contributed

The campaign group “We Need To Talk About Fracking” has invited two panels of pro and anti-frackers to a debate on the controversial shale gas extraction process.

Earlier this week the group released a letter signed by over 150 celebrities, lawyers and scientists including Sir Paul McCartney, Yoko Ono, comedian Frankie Boyle, Michael Mansfield QC and Nobel Laureate in chemistry Professor Harold Kroto, calling for a debate.

The motion for the debate is “this house believes that fracking is an acceptable and effective way of securing energy for the benefit of Britain.”

Joe Corré, spokesman for the group, said the majority of people did not know what fracking was and were unaware of the consequences.

“Scotland is on the front line with what is happening with unconventional gas extraction with similar methods being used at Airth in Falkirk.” Mr Corré said.

“These debates present an ideal chance to stress test the pro-fracking argument and to nail the pro-fracking facts. Members of the public can sign up for free tickets on www.talkfracking.org.

“People want to hear what hard evidence the pro-frackers have about the benefits of the technology. People believe they need to be consulted as intelligent participants in a significant national decision.”

In March a public inquiry was launched into Dart Energy’s proposals to drill 22 well for gas for coal bed methane gas extraction in the Forth Valley.

A spokesman for Dart Energy said they had declined to take part in the debate in Glasgow due to the short notice of the invitation.

The debate tour continues to Nottingham, Manchester and Swansea before finishing in London on 16 June where it will be chaired by Jon Snow, television presenter.

* “We Need To Talk About Fracking” - free public debate, 8pm Monday 9 June, the Arches, 253 Argyle Street, Glasgow.