France to Ban Shale Gas Extraction?

A report from Reuters published by various media appears to indicate that the French government has decided to prohibit of the exploitation of shale gas and to abrogate licences previously granted.

The government granted exploration licenses in three areas in the south of France to companies including Total SA Schuepbach Energy, and GDF Suez in March 2010, which would be repealed when the proposal is adopted.

Member of the European Parliament and a leading opponent of shale gas development, José Bové said he was "delighted" at the news.

"But I remain extremely wary of this government announcement, until a law will not be passed to formalize the official surrender," Bové told Reuters.

Read the Reuters report (in French) HERE