Shale gas could provide a significant boost to supply chain investment and employment if the resource is exploited in the UK.

Ernst and Young (EY) has revealed that £33 billion of investment in supply chain activities will be necessary in order to drill up to 4,000 laterals (horizontal wells) over an 18-year timeframe.

In addition, around 64,000 jobs could be linked to shale gas exploration sites, either in the supply chain or supporting services as a result of this new investment activity. 

However, immediate action is required to ensure the UK puts the necessary infrastructure, supply chain standards and skills in place - otherwise, developers may take advantage of opportunities overseas.

Chris Lewis, partner advisory services at EY and the author of the report, said: "Industry and government need to take action now for the necessary infrastructure, supply chain standards and skills to be ready in time."