THANK-you for keeping the topic of fracking in the arena of public debate via your article by Karen Darley and Hannah Bryan (November 12), and via Mike Potter’s fair-minded and excellent letter in the same issue.

You are clearly aware that the topic is of immediate concern locally and that failure to act now prejudices not merely the future of Ryedale and the surrounding area, but that of many other parts of the UK.

It is a national problem longer term, but one with which we are immediately faced.

I share Mike Potter’s concerns about self-regulation, lack of transparency from government and exploration companies, the need for the pro-lobby to answer the legitimate concerns of the frack-free side (where I now find myself), and would echo his call for a national televised debate (Channel 4 perhaps (?)).

I do feel, however, with Councillor Lindsay Burr that public meetings should also take place soon at local levels, organised by Ryedale District and North Yorkshire County Councils, during which informed public debate could take place, both sides representing their arguments.

The opponents of fracking have over the last few weeks presented strong arguments to support their case. As Mr Potter said: “The burden of proof must lie heavily with the pro-lobby.”

Vast tracts of devastated non-productive land may not be part of the price the British public is ready to pay for the promised energy security.

Surely a moratorium is a necessity until such time as we are better informed.

David Cragg-James, Stonegrave