Mr. Gareth R. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action he is taking to promote environmental and social reporting by British companies; and if he will make a statement. [86864]
§ Mr. BattleThere are a number of related issues in this area. For example, the DTI is working with the DETR to meet the objectives of the national Sustainable Development Strategy to develop standards and guidance for environmental reporting and to encourage all UK companies to report publicly on their environmental performance.
In March 1998, the DTI launched a fundamental review of company law which is being taken forward by an independent Steering Group. The Steering Group is considering a wide range of issues concerning the company's relationship with its wider interests, including the potential for company law to promote corporate transparency. The role of non-financial reporting, including on environmental and social issues, forms part of this consideration.