WARRINGTON South MP Faisal Rashid believes the Government should ban fracking instead of ‘promoting’ it.

The Labour politician has issued a statement on the issue after the controversial process started in Lancashire – for the first time in the UK since 2011.

Mr Rashid said: “I am deeply disappointed that the Government continues to push its pro-fracking agenda as fracking begins in Lancashire.

“I have been contacted by a number of constituents who have raised concerns about fracking and I share these concerns.

“I am also deeply worried by the Government’s recent decision to significantly reduce the input of local views into the decision-making process when it comes to fracking.

“Rather than making changes that will undermine decision-making, we should give planning authorities greater powers to put people and communities at the heart of planning.

“I remain totally opposed to fracking in Warrington South and across the UK.”

No fracking has been taking place in the town but planning permission exists at three locations for activities related to the extraction of unconventional gas.

The council says it will publicise any planning applications it receives, so people have the opportunity to get involved and have their say.

Mr Rashid added: “Despite the Government’s ‘green’ rhetoric, the Tories have slashed support for small scale renewables, scaled back support for electric vehicles and are being slammed by a leading climate scientist for its pursuit of fracking.

“Instead of encouraging the use of fossil fuel, we should be boosting renewable energy projects.

“At the 2017 General Election, Labour’s manifesto made it clear that in Government we will ban fracking entirely and I am proud to stand by this commitment.

“I will continue to fight against fracking in Parliament and Warrington South.

“The Government should be banning fracking, not promoting it.”

Warrington North MP Helen Jones has called on the council to declare itself an anti-fracking borough.