§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what policies he is pursuing to raise the environmental awareness of further and higher education institutions, with particular regard to sustainable development practices and citizenship initiatives. [48075]
§ Dr. HowellsMy right hon. Friend promotes awareness of environmental issues in the further and higher education sectors through the funding councils and sector representative bodies. The Further Education Funding Council has encouraged further education colleges to adopt sound environmental practices: it asks them in formulating their strategic plans to take account of the recommendations of the Toyne Committee on Environmental Responsibility. The Higher Education Funding Council for England has been carrying out environmental audits, in conjunction with the Committee of Vice Chancellors and Principals and the Standing Conference of Principals. In addition, the Sustainable Development Education Panel, an advisory group established by the Government, is considering these issues: we await their recommendations with interest.