KINGLASSIE MSP Jenny Gilruth has welcomed the news that licenses for

unconventional coal gasification (UCG) in the Firth of Forth have been surrendered.

Plans by Cluff Natural Resources to burn underground coalbeds for shale gas were stalled following the Scottish Government’s moratorium on UCG in 2015.

In October 2016, the Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, Paul Wheelhouse, reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s position that it would not support UCG developments in Scotland.

The nine licenses held by Cluff Natural Resources for UCG have now been surrendered.

Commenting, Jenny Gilruth MSP said: “Given the world-leading progress Scotland is making in pioneering renewable energy technologies, and given the huge concerns of the public and campaigners over the impact of UCG on our environment, I don’t believe the case for UCG has been made.

“Until we have substantial evidence that proves fracking and UCG are safe, then we must take precautions to protect our environment and public health, so I welcome the surrender of these licenses.

“The SNP will not allow fracking or underground coal gasification in Scotland unless it can be proven beyond doubt that it will not harm our environment, communities or public health. I fully support the Scottish Government’s moratorium on UCG and look toward a safe and sustainable energy future for Scotland.”