Lords question Government scientific experts on risks of fracking
The House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee will question Sir David King and Professor David MacKay next Tuesday 7 January as part of its investigation into the economic impact of shale gas and oil
Sir David King, former Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government, is now the Special Representative for Climate Change at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Professor David MacKay is the Chief Scientific Officer at the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
They will be asked by the Committee about the possible environmental and health risks of hydraulic fracturing.
Other questions the witnesses will face include:
- Do you think any further research is required into potential health risks for nearby communities?
- What can we learn from the US experience in relation to possible health and environmental dangers?
- Do you believe the risks under discussion can be adequately managed within the current regulatory framework?
- Is the level of self-regulation in the industry appropriate?
- How compatible do you think the development of shale gas is with the UK's targets for reducing carbon emissions?
- What is your view of the potential for shale gas development in the UK?
The evidence session will start at 3.30 pm on Tuesday 7 January in Committee Room 1 of the House of Lords.
