The Government has said it will examine Europa Oil & Gas’ application for a 38m gas rig in Burniston, near Scarborough, days before councillors were set to make a decision on the plan which has been recommended for approval. A spokesperson for Europa said it was “disappointing” that the meeting had been “unnecessarily postponed”. The Secretary of State will, in general, only consider the use of his call-in powers if planning issues of more than local importance are involved, according to the Government. “The decision to postpone the meeting has been made as a result of this correspondence, as well as discussions with councillors who sit on the strategic planning committee. “Fracking blights our countryside, won’t cut UK energy bills and is deeply unpopular with local communities.