POWERS to approve or block applications for 'fracking' in Wales have been handed to the Welsh Government.

Power over onshore petroleum licensing has been devolved to Wales this week, meaning the Welsh Government is now responsible for granting licenses for any kind of petroleum extraction on Welsh soil.

This includes the controversial 'fracking', through which pressurised liquid is injected into rock to split it, allowing gas and oil to be extracted. Opponents of the method claim it damages the environment and increases the likelihood of earthquakes, and earlier this year the Welsh Government said its preferred approach was not to grant any new licenses.

A consultation has since been held on the issue, and closed at the end of last month after receiving more than 1,800 responses.

Energy, planning and rural affairs secretary Lesley Griffiths said: “Burning fossil fuels is the number one contributor to global warming and there is overwhelming scientific evidence which shows how climate change is damaging our planet.

"Instead of exploring new ways to extract fossil fuels, we should be investing in renewable forms of energy.

“As a government, we must responsibly manage our natural resources in a way that meets the needs of the people of Wales, not just today, but into the future.

“I would like to thank everyone who provided their feedback to the consultation and I expect to announce the Welsh Government’s policy by the end of the year.”