HC Deb 22 June 1992 vol 210 cc2-3W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will outline his Department's policy on recovery and recycling of ozone-depleting chemicals.

Sir John Cope

It is Treasury policy to recover or recycle products containing such substances where possible.

Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the amount in tonnes of ozone-depleting chemicals used or purchased by his Department for the years 1989; 1990 and 1991, and estimates of usage for the next year; what is the estimated bank of ozone-depleting chemicals contained within his Department; and how many months' supply of ozone-depleting chemicals have been ordered by his Department.

Sir John Cope

The amount of ozone-depleting chemicals used or purchased over the period specified has been significantly less than one tonne, as is the current stock of such chemicals. No ozone-depleting chemicals are on order.

Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his Department's policy on purchasing ozone-depleting chemicals and goods manufactured with these substances; and in which year his Department expects to cease using, purchasing or releasing ozone-depleting substances controlled by the Montreal protocol and HCFC.

Sir John Cope

In line with both Government and EC policy, Treasury procurement is based on best value for money and objective non-discriminatory criteria.

Within these parameters, it is Treasury policy not to purchase, wherever possible, any substances containing CFCs, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform or halons. This includes equipment and packaging where such substances have been used in manufacture. Where this is not possible, we expect suppliers to take all reasonable steps to comply speedily with the Montreal protocol.