The UK will become one of the first countries in the world to ban new coal mines as the government announces restrictions to licences.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has confirmed that legislation will be introduced to restrict the future licensing of new coal mines, ministers said phasing out the fossil fuel worldwide is a crucial step to limiting global temperature rises and improving air quality.

It comes after Britain became the first major economy to stop burning coal for power in October, as the country's last coal-fired power station closed.

There will be a few exemptions to the ban such as for “safety or restoration purposes” and to protect the historic rights of freeminers to mine personal plots or “gales” in the Forest of Dean.

A "small number" of operational coal mines will be unaffected by the ban and can continue mining in line with their current licences and consents.