An MPs' inquiry into protecting the Arctic from exploitation through oil and gas drilling has been launched.

The Environmental Audit Committee will look at how climate change might open the region to new commercial activities, and what Britain can do to protect the fragile wilderness.

Potential exploitation of the region will be controversial, with environmentalists warning about the damage to the area and climate if activities such as drilling for new fossil fuel supplies go ahead.

(The Independent, 08/01/2012)