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Small-scale Fracking Ban
10 December 2025
Lead MP
Alison Hume
Scarborough and Whitby
Lab
Responding Minister
Michael Shanks
Tags
Climate
Word Count: 3548
Other Contributors: 5
At a Glance
Alison Hume raised concerns about small-scale fracking ban in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP calls for a national ban on all types of fracking to protect landscapes and environment, as well as the need for local communities to have final say over such operations.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Europa Oil & Gas applied to explore for gas at Burniston, proposing a 38-metre-high drilling rig and 'proppant squeeze', which is essentially small-scale fracking. The petition against the plans has over 10,000 signatories calling for a Government ban on such activities. Seismologists warn of seismic risks regardless of fluid volume thresholds set in current legislation.
Alison Hume
Lab
Scarborough and Whitby
Called on the Government to introduce a comprehensive ban on fracking based on intent and process, disregarding fluid volumes, to prevent damaging greenhouse gas emissions and ensure alignment with climate commitments.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Supports the view that local communities should have final say on fracking operations and opposes any proceeding without their agreement.
John Whitby
Lab
Derbyshire Dales
Expresses concern over fracking in Derbyshire, citing risks to sub-surface stability and environmental pollution. Advocates for a national ban on all forms of fracking due to climate emergency.
Luke Charters
Lab
York Outer
Highlights that Reform UK's plans pose a danger to York Outer and Scarborough and Whitby, threatening beautiful countryside and property prices.
Charters
Lab
Emphasised that fracking leads to water scarcity, noting the recent hosepipe ban in Yorkshire. Agreed with the lead MP's argument for incorporating impacts on water scarcity when considering planning applications. Questioned the inclusion of water scarcity in evidence, referencing difficulties faced by communities in accessing sufficient water.
Government Response
Michael Shanks
The Minister for Energy
Government Response
Acknowledged the concerns raised by Alison Hume and highlighted the Government's commitment to tackling the climate emergency. Stated that the North Sea Future Plan includes an approach to cease new oil and gas licensing while managing existing fields for their lifespan, helping manage the transition from fossil fuels towards clean energy. Acknowledged concerns about water scarcity raised during the debate and stated that the Government would continue to review evidence on low-volume hydraulic fracturing. Emphasised that decisions are based on robust evidence and existing licences will not be revoked.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.