§ Sue DoughtyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what the sustainability strategy is for his Department; and if he will make a statement on how it has changed since the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg. [83506]
§ Peter HainMy Department is small with no executive functions and, therefore, is limited in the contribution it can make to the UK's sustainable development strategy. It has no independent sustainability strategy of its own but in line with the Government's strategy, carries out its functions with the aim of integrating economic, environmental and social policies to ensure a better quality of life for everyone, now and for future generations. This means achieving four objectives simultaneously
Maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment;Effective protection of the environment;Prudent use of natural resources; andSocial progress that meets the needs of everyone.The outcome of the World Summit on Sustainable Development, and first views on follow-up, will be reflected in the annual report on UK progress on sustainable development for 2002.