§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the outcome of the UK round table meeting on sustainable development on 22 February; and if he will make a statement. [19808]
§ Mr. GummerThe UK round table met on 22 February, having published in January three initial reports—on freight transport, the domestic energy market, 1998 and beyond, and environmental management and audit. At the 22 February meeting, the round table agreed its first year annual report, which will be published shortly and to which the Government will respond formally. The meeting also discussed the Sea Empress oil spill, progress in the OECD ministerial environment committee and issues arising from the Newbury bypass.