HC Deb 05 March 1992 vol 205 cc231-2W
Mrs. Roe

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress is being made towards implementing the EC eco-labelling scheme.

Mr. Baldry

The United Kingdom is playing a leading role in preparing for the launch of the European scheme. We are developing criteria on a wider range of products than any other country and we are making a significant contribution to putting in place the necessary European administrative arrangements for the operation of the scheme.

Nationally, we are required by the eco-labelling regulation to designate a competent body for the scheme. We have decided that a dedicated non-departmental public body would be the most suitable organisation to take on this role in the United Kingdom. In reaching this decision, we took account of the National Advisory Group on Eco-Labelling's advice that the body should be official, independent and at arm's length from ministerial control. This should demonstrate the authority and impartiality of the body and promote the credibility of the scheme. We will introduce legislation to establish this body when parliamentary time permits. Until then, it will operate in an advisory capacity.

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Elizabeth Nelson has agreed to chair the United Kingdom eco-labelling body. Dr Nelson is presently chairman of Addison Group Consultancy plc and the Taylor Nelson Group Ltd., but has indicated that she intends to step down later in the year. She has extensive business experience, and particular expertise in the fields of marketing and market research, which she will be able to contribute to the development of the eco-labelling scheme in the United Kingdom and across the European Community. We will be announcing the names of the other members of the board of the eco-labelling body in due course.