HC Deb 11 July 1995 vol 263 cc530-1W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the environmental implications of "Options for Change"; and if he will make a statement. [33360]

Mr. Soames

"Options for Change" involved reductions and changes in the structures of the armed forces. Where these changes involved major developments or intensification of use of the defence estate the environmental implications would normally have been considered on a case by case basis.

Dr. Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the environmental implications for the practices of his Department of the Secretary of State for the Environment's guidance document, "Policy Appraisal and the Environment". [33361]

Mr. Soames

In line with Government policy and guidance contained in such documents as the Department of the Environment's "Policy Appraisal and the Environment", my Department seeks to identify, assess and where practicable minimise the environmental impacts of its current and planned activities. The senior environmental forum within my Department, which is chaired by the Green Minister, seeks to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into all aspects of our policy formulation.

Dr. Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to produce environmental statements for all defence-related infrastructure projects where national security would not be jeopardised by doing so. [33362]

Mr. Soames

My Department is already committed to conducting environmental impact assessments for all major projects and where new, renewed or intensified use is to be made of training areas.