Gas fracking: Ministers approve shale gas extraction

The government is allowing a firm to resume the controversial technique of fracking for shale gas.

It has lifted a moratorium which was imposed last year after two small earth tremors in Lancashire believed to have been triggered by test drilling.

Fracking involves using high-pressure liquid deep underground to shatter rock, so releasing trapped gas.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey said there would be new controls to reduce the risk of seismic activity.

John Moylan reports.