A WIRRAL MP has questioned the Government on its policy towards Underground Coal Gasification.

Last month Energy Secretary, Amber Rudd MP announced plans to end the use of 'unabated' coal in energy generation altogether by 2025, but did not address the issue of Underground Coal Gasification.

During a meeting of the Environmental Audit Committee this week, Wirral West MP Margaret Greenwood questioned the department's position on UCG.

She said: "Like so many people in Wirral West, I am completely opposed to Underground Coal Gasification in the Dee Estuary.

"The Energy Secretary said in November that coal is the most carbon intensive fossil fuel, damages air quality and is simply not sustainable in the longer term.

"So if the Government is proposing to end burning coal in coal-fired stations above ground, why is burning it underground acceptable?

"196 countries are meeting in Paris this week to negotiate a global treaty for tackling climate change and I want to see a strong deal that will protect our planet for future generations through ambitious plans for carbon reduction.

"However, the UK Government is struggling to meet the targets that already exist and it will continue to do so if it backs energy sources like UCG whilst cutting back severely support for renewable energy.”