a shale gas producer has been forced to suspend drilling near Blackpool after scientists linked earthquakes to its operations (Tim Webb writes).  Cuadrilla Resources, which is backed by the former BP boss Lord Browne of Madingley, uses a controversial process known as "fracking" that involves blasting water, sand and chemicals into rock formations to release gas.  Scientists from the British Geological Survey said that the company's shale gas exploration may be connected to two small quakes in the area on april 1 and May 27. It said: "any process that injects pressurised water into rocks at depth will cause the rock to fracture and possibly produce earthquakes. Injection of water or other fluids during oil extraction and geothermal engineering, such as shale gas, can result in earthquake activity."  Drilling is likely to be suspended while experts analyse seismic data.  The suspension is particularly embarrassing for the Energy and Climate Change Committee, chaired by the former Environment Minister Tim Yeo. It ruled last month that there should be no moratorium on shale gas activities in Britain and that the process was relatively safe.  France is proposing to ban shale gas exploration over safety fears.