HC Deb 10 April 2003 vol 403 cc406-7W
Ms Walley

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) how much independently certified timber is being used in the refurbishment of the Treasury; and what proportion of the total timber purchased for this refurbishment this represents; [108148]

(2) how much timber is being used for the current refurbishment at the Treasury and for what purposes; and which companies are supplying the timber for refurbishment. [108149]

Ruth Kelly

The information is not available, as the project has not yet reached the stage of identifying the extent of the timber requirements. I will write to my hon. Friend with this information as soon as it is made available. However, we shall be seeking to use as much existing timber where possible and thereafter, procured from sustainable development sources carrying the PCS trademark or other equivalent internationally recognised independent certification system for good forest management.

Ms Walley

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to his answer of 24 March 2003,Official Report, column 64W, on sustainable timber products, what general criteria are used to select companies that have tendered for inclusion in OGC buying solutions framework arrangements; what environmental criteria are taken into account in this process; and if he will place a copy of the most recent advertisement that appeared in the Official Journal of the European Communities in the Library. [108178]

Mr. Boateng

OGC buying solutions framework agreements are awarded following a competitive tender process in full accordance with EC rules. The main criterion for award is the acceptance of the most economically advantageous offer (i.e. value for money). The sub criteria include adherence to product specification, price, service delivery capability and whole life costs. Qualitative and whole life costs criteria will include relevant environmental factors such as energy savings, recyclability and disposal costs. As requested, a copy of the most recent relevant advertisement in theOfficial Journal of the European Communities has been provided.