§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list those of the United Kingdom's environmental policy aims and commitments made at the earth summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 which have not yet been implemented, indicating in each case when he expects their implementation. [30135]
§ Mr. ClappisonFollowing the earth summit, the Government set out an eight point plan, which we subsequently agreed with our EU and G7 partners, for taking forward commitments entered into at Rio. The plan covered the ratification of the climate change and biodiversity conventions; the publication of national strategies on sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity and forests; contributing to the restructuring and replenishment of the global environment facility and a continuing commitment to financial assistance to developing countries.
159WThe Government also announced the establishment of the Darwin initiative to provide grants to developing countries for biodiversity projects; the technology partnership initiative; and the holding of an international conference bringing together NGO experience from around the world.
All these commitments have been met. The Government also publish a White Paper annually which provides detailed information about progress in meeting commitments to sustainable development and which sets out priorities ahead. The latest in the series, Cm 3188, was published in March this year.