§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is his Department's policy on the purchase and use of(a) recycled paper, (b) low-energy light bulbs, (c) tropical hardwoods, (d) peat and (e) cars with catalytic converters.
§ Mr. HowardIn line with our aim of securing best value for money at the least possible cost to the environment, the Department's policy on the purchase and use of the products listed is as summarised below.
(a) Recycled paper
The Department will continue to promote effective and economic use of paper, using recycled stationery where possible and encouraging the development of new and existing paper recycling schemes.(b) Low-energy light bulbs
The practice of replacing filament type light bulbs with low-energy bulbs where practicable, having been largely achieved in Prison Service establishments, is to he extended across the Department.(c) Tropical hardwoods
So far as practicable, the use of tropical hardwoods is to he avoided in building projects and in the procurement of office furniture, etc.(d) Peat
The use of peat is to he avoided where acceptable alternatives are available.Cars with catalytic converters
The purchase and use of vehicles with diesel engines is preferred as the fuel is lead-free and more economical. Where petrol-engined vehicles are in use, they should run on unleaded petrol and be fitted with catalytic converters. Vehicles are to be checked annually to ensure that all emissions comply with statutory requirements.