The man set to make the decision about a £160 million coal mine off the coast of Whitehaven has been sacked by the Prime Minister.
Michael Gove, as Levelling-Up Minister, was handed a recommendation by the Planning Inspectorate earlier this year.
It followed a lengthy public inquiry into the plans from West Cumbria Mining to create an off-shore coking coal mine, and Mr Gove had until today to issue a decision.
However, it is not clear whether that decision will be issued as Government is in turmoil.
Mr Gove was sacked last night by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and more than 30 members of Government have resigned – including three cabinet ministers.
Several members of Mr Johnson’s cabinet have told him to quit, but he says he has a mandate from the people and is holding firm.
West Cumbria Mining’s planning application – despite being approved three times by Cumbria County Council – were called in by the then Housing, Communities and Local Government secretary Robert Jenrick after concerns over climate change and the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Mr Jenrick was replaced by Mr Gove in September in a straightforward cabinet reshuffle.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also said he was did not think it should go ahead.
This morning, Mr Johnson has announced his resignation as Conservative Party leader, but will stay on as Prime Minister until the autumn.
A Conservative leadership race will take place this summer and a new Prime Minister will be in place in time for the party conference in October, the BBC said.
Greg Clark has been announced as the new Levelling Up Secretary this morning, replacing Michael Gove.
