Research from the US calls for a halt to fracking. A report from Environment America says fracking produces enormous volumes of toxic waste water that once brought to the surface poses hazards for drinking water, air quality and public safety. The report also says fracking requires huge volumes of water for each well, releases thousands of tons of health-threatening air pollution and significant volumes of global warming pollution.

The Daily Telegraph reports the Conservatives are considering using tax receipts from fracking to reduce energy bills. The paper says the idea is being considered for inclusion in the party’s manifesto for the 2015 general election.

Timeline – October 2013