§ Mr. Kevin HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to include, as members of the working group into peat and related matters, independent producers of peat alternatives who are not involved in the peat industry.
§ Mr. BaldryThe Government have no plans to include independent producers of peat alternatives as members of the working group into peat. However, the scope of the greater use of alternative materials is an important feature of the group's work. I propose to consult the producers before finalising any future policies for peatlands.
§ Mr. Kevin HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will place in the Library the minutes of the meetings of the working group into peat and related matters.
§ Mr. BaldryI have no plans to place the minutes of the meetings of the working group on peat in the Library. However, I will be publishing later this year, for wide consultation, a report summarising the information that has been made available to the group, together with a draft policy paper and a draft guidance note. Copies of these will be placed in the Library.