Artists form anti-fracking group

Artists and celebrities in the US have formed a group to oppose hydraulic fracturing, known colloquially as fracking, in the state of New York. The practice has spread quickly across the US in recent years, producing cheap natural gas for energy and chemical manufacturing and a much needed boost for the US economy. But it is controversial, with environmentalists claiming it can lead to contamination of vital water sources. New York has yet to allow fracking, but commentators say the state administration is warming to the practice and that a change in policy is imminent. Such talk has prompted Japanese artist Yoko Ono to form the group, which includes musician Lady Gaga and actor Alec Baldwin.