Responding to the news that the Scottish Government has extended Ineos’ fracking licence in the area to the south and west of Falkirk, Liberal Democrat MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“The Scottish Government’s stance on fracking is erratic and nonsensical. Extending Ineos’ licence in Falkirk sits at odds with their resolute anti-fracking rhetoric.

“It was only last month they were flitting between calling it a ban and a ‘preferred position’ depending on the audience. Communities in areas at risk of being fracked won’t be impressed to see the supposedly solid fracking ban flip-flopped once again.

"Liberal Democrats are clear that embarking on a whole new front of carbon-based fuels and energy production would do nothing to help meet our climate commitments."