§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will list the ways in which his Department has(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. [4529]
§ Mr. AncramAll Northern Ireland Departments have produced green housekeeping action plans and the industrial research and technology unit of the Department of Economic Development has applied for accreditation BS 7750.
(a) The Department of Economic Development provides financial assistance to industry and commerce in Northern Ireland for environmental auditing and environmental management leading to the adoption of standards such as BS 7750 or ISO 14001 or participation in the EC eco-management and audit scheme EMAS.
(b) The Department also promotes the benefits of environmental auditing and consequential action through the publication of case study booklets and liaison with industry groups.