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<p>A 2012 Written Ministerial Statement outlined new requirements on fracking to mitigate
the risks of seismic activity – the ‘traffic light system’. This statement acknowledged
that the trigger levels set in this system were cautious and exceeded the control
protocols in place for other industries such as geothermal energy, construction and
quarrying. However, it was made clear that the reasons for this approach were specific
and appropriate to the context of the nascent shale gas sector. It noted that trigger
levels could be adjusted upwards as experience of fracking operations developed.</p><p>
</p><p>Following a seismic event of magnitude 2.9 at Preston New Road in 2019, the
Government took a presumption against issuing further hydraulic fracturing consents.
Seismic events induced by fracking had proved to be unpredictable in size, timing
and frequency.</p><p> </p><p>It remains the Government’s policy to be guided by the
evidence and to minimise disturbance to those living and working nearby, and to prevent
the risk of damage.</p>
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