Survey: France Remains Hostile to Shale Gas Exploration

France did not change its position on shale gas, with a broad cross-party opposition to unconventional operations in the country.

‘Recent survey by pollsters BVA for the journal 20 Minutes found that 62% of French citizens are hostile to shale gas operations, 31% somewhat opposed and as many again are strongly opposed. BVA Institute says that the topic unites the Left ( 80% of left-wing voters are against the exploitation of shale gas ), but divides the right ( 51% of right-wing voters are in favour ),’ reads a post of the blog Schiste Happens.

According to the blog, younger generations and women are the ones more prone to stand up against it.  

‘The conclusion is therefore that Sarkozy (who promises a complete U turn in the matter should he be elected President) defends a largely unpopular idea,’ adds the blog. 

Over the last days, the French government confirmed its intention to block hydraulic fracturing in the country.