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Fracking campaigners call for end to fossil fuel subsidies

news release

Salford residents, green groups and trade union members will join forces tomorrow (Wednesday 4th) to oppose tax breaks for shale gas, ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement on Thursday.

The Chancellor is expected to confirm the tax regime that will apply to fracking, with the headline rate cut from 62% to 30%. The campaigners will gather at the Barton Moss site in Salford, where IGas are set to carry out drilling for shale gas.

Stephen Hall, President of Greater Manchester Association of Trade Union Councils, said:

“We need to end subsidies for fossil fuels. Instead of tax breaks for dirty fracking, the Government should be investing in clean energy, insulating our heat-leaking homes, and creating climate jobs.”

Helen Rimmer, North West Campaigner at Friends of the Earth said:

“While the Chancellor cosies up to the frackers with a string of tax breaks, earlier in the week he jeopardised thousands of jobs and ensured more people will stay shivering in their homes when he slashed support for energy efficiency.

“If Ministers were serious about affordable power and job creation, they would invest in renewables and energy saving rather than tax breaks for fossil fuels that will cause more climate change.”

ENDS

Photo opportunity Wednesday 11am, entrance to Barton Moss Road from Liverpool Road (A 57)

Contact: Helen Rimmer 07940 006783

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