ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners have criticised plans by Total, the French oil giant, to explore for shale gas in the UK.

Total will reportedly become the first major oil company to get involved in the controversial fracking projects in a deal due to be announced tomorrow. It is expected to see the French oil giant join a shale gas exploration licence in the Midlands which is currently operated by US firm eCORP.

Lawrence Carter, Greenpeace climate campaigner, said: "The UK Government seem deaf to the risks fracking poses to our environment and local communities."