HC Deb 29 April 2004 vol 420 cc1174-5W
Mr. George Osborne

To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee whether the House plans to source more food from North West food producers following the North West Food and Drink promotion in the House on 22 April. [168709]

Mr. Dennis Turner

In conjunction with North West Fine Foods, the Refreshment Department launched the two week North West Regional Food and Drink Promotion on 20 April. This is the second in a series of planned regional promotions.

I recognise the strong interest in the provenance of food and drink sold in the House. Regional promotions give small businesses a chance to raise awareness of their produce with wholesalers supplying the House, and other potential customers. I hope that some of the products that prove popular during the course of the promotion will, in future, be available for regular supply to the House.