§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what specific initiatives his Department has already taken and plans to take, in support of the Montreal protocol for reducing the production of chlorofluorocarbons; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe Secretary of State for the Environment has lead policy responsibility in respect of the United Kingdom's obligations under the Montreal protocol, in consultation with my right hon. and noble Friend.
Her Majesty's Government were an initial signatory to the protocol last September and have actively participated in the subsequent discussions on the proposed EC implementing measures, in particular the provisions relating to the scheduled freeze and cuts in production and consumption, and to identity scope for substitutes and 635W increased opportunities for recycling and recovery. We are also supporting the initiatives being taken by industry at a European level to reduce dependance on these chemicals.