§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the ways in which his Department has demonstrated the ability to improve efficiency and competitiveness through an environmental audit of(a) energy use and (b) waste management within those buildings his Department occupies; and if he will make a statement. [16419]
§ Mr. HanleyThis Department continually strives to reduce the impact of its activities on the environment. We retain the services of consultants who advise on energy efficiency and environmental matters for the UK estate. For example, a recent line analysis of electrical demand in the main building has identified possibilities for additional 581W savings on power consumption. Most recently, a report in the management of waste paper has been prepared which will be used to enhance the existing recycling system.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his answer of 19 November 1996,Official Report, columns 643–44, regarding the ability to improve efficiency and competitiveness through environmental auditing, if he will list the ways in which his Department has demonstrated this within those buildings his Department (a) occupies in the United kingdom and (b) occupies abroad; and if he will make a statement. [16444]
§ Mr. HanleyBoth diplomatic and overseas development wings of the Department retain the services of consultants to advised on energy efficiency and environmental matters concerning buildings occupied in the United Kingdom. The introduction of energy efficient lighting, modern boiler controls and optimisers have all contributed to cutting energy usage and costs. When maintaining, building or refurbishing properties for occupation overseas, the Department encourages consideration of the issues promoted by the Building Research Establishment/environmental assessment method. The Department also provides guidance to all overseas posts to enable compliance with global environmental issues.