§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the right hon. Member for Selby, representing the Church Commissioners, if he will list the ways in which the commissioners have(a) demonstrated by example and (b) promoted externally, the ability to improve efficiency and competitiveness through environmental auditing; and if he will make a statement. [4545]
§ Mr. AlisonWithin their offices at No. 1 Millbank, the commissioners recycle aluminium cans and cardboard, and a paper recycling scheme is to be introduced by the end of the year. Where appropriate, the commissioners buy recycled materials. In addition, the heating system is computer controlled to minimise wastage and a heat recovery system is in operation. The commissioners are in the process of installing long-life, low-energy lamps throughout their offices.
The commissioners ensure that the needs of the environment and of the local community are properly taken into account in the management of their agricultural estates. On many of the commissioners' residential estates, heat loss—and thereby energy consumption—have been reduced by double glazing, draft proofing and loft insulation. Energy-saving light bulbs are used in the common parts of many buildings and, in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust, they are installing energy-saving boilers which emit waste that is more environmentally friendly. They also maintain a number of communal gardens on their estates and paper re-cycling is carried out at one of the estate offices.