Obama administration halts new coal mining leases on public land

Groups applaud review that will assess how federal coal production fits in with the US's commitment to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions

The Obama administration will halt new coal mining on public land for the next three years with immediate effect as it undertakes a review of the "environmental and public health impacts" of coal production.

The wide-ranging review, applauded by climate and environmental groups, will assess how federal coal production fits in with the US's commitment to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. It will also ensure "American taxpayers are earning a fair return for the use of their public resources" - raising the possibility of a hike in royalties or a new levy on coal producers.