HC Deb 02 March 1994 vol 238 cc711-2W
Mr. Barry Field

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list the advice available and research undertaken into the removal of chewing gum from brick pedestrian precincts for local authorities.

Mr. Atkins

The Department has not issued any advice or undertaken any research into methods of removing chewing gum. This is a matter for local authorities in view of their responsibilities for street cleansing. I am aware, however, that Westminster city council is currently testing equipment aimed at dealing with this problem.

1988–89 1989–90 1990–91 1991–92 1992–93
Foundation staffing and support costs 360,000 418,350 711,256 1,261,503 1,544,950
Trusts' running costs 1,039,000 1,170,025 1,292,407 1,622,319 1,521,017
Projects 54,000 70,000 76,353 390,721 1,145,766
Computer systems 0 0 0 283,772 199,037
Training 0 18,000 37,790 181,183 272,230
Total grant allocation 1,453,000 1,676,375 2,117,806 3,739,498 4,683,000

Mr. Robert Ainsworth

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how he determines that a proposed Groundwork trust will not adversely affect existing environmental charities in the area.

Mr. Atkins

The proposal for Groundwork trust is worked up by local people in partnership. A steering group is formed comprising members of the. local authority, business community and voluntary organisations and community groups in the area. The Groundwork Foundation gives guidance to the steering group working up a proposal and seeks to ensure that the trust will work in partnership with, and complement the work of, existing environmental agencies.

Mr. Robert Ainsworth

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if Groundwork trusts have paid money to other environmental charities to advance projects under Groundwork's remit.

Mr. Atkins

Yes. Groundwork trusts work in partnership with other environmental organisations and