On 13th and 14th May an exhibition and conference on Shale Gas (fracking) is taking place at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham UK. The exhibition is part of an international series, and is sponsored by Halliburton. The conference will be attended by CEOs and key personnel of the major gas companies, Members of Parliament and representatives from the majority of local councils and planning departments in the UK. There was an attendee list on Shale Gas World’s website but it was taken down after links were posted around social media (maybe coincidence) and is now only available upon request. In the lead up to the 14th PEDL licensing rounds this is an ideal lobbying opportunity for the gas companies.

Many UK citizens are concerned about the environmental damage and health risks connected with fracking. We are also opposed to the pursuit of fossil fuel extraction to the detriment of investment in the development of renewable clean energy and the subsequent effects on pollution and global warming. We are also appalled that despite a majority of public opinion against them our government is backing the gas companies to such an extent that they will change laws to prevent the public making legal challenges against them.

A group of concerned members of the public will gather in peaceful protest to demonstrate opposition to fracking outside the NEC Pavilion at 8am on the 13th May.

Conference website: http://www.terrapinn.com/conference/shale-gas-uk/index.stm

Protest event page on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/events/256488157867845/