§ 133. Mr. CorbynTo ask the Minister for the Civil Service what action is being taken to ensure that the Civil Service uses recycled paper and does not use rare tropical timber; and if he will make a statement on his Department's environmental policies.
§ Mr. LuceA working party representing the paper industry and public sector users is encouraging use of recycled paper where this is cost effective, and HMSO publicises its availability. However, supplies of good quality waste are limited and recycled paper can be up to 50 per cent. more expensive than general purpose paper produced from virgin pulp. Imported wood pulp includes only small amounts from tropical countries, mainly from specially planted eucalyptus.
It is my Department's practice to participate in those environmental initiatives applicable to Government Departments in general.