HC Deb 03 November 2003 vol 412 c502W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development whether it is his policy to support World Bank projects for new roads only when subject to a full environmental impact assessment. [136095]

Hilary Benn

All World Bank projects must be subjected to an initial environmental assessment. This determines the environmental category of the project and the level of requirement for appraisal and implementation. All documents are in the public domain in the recipient countries.

Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps he is taking to ensure that World Bank support for transport projects does not require the closure of railway lines. [136096]

Hilary Benn

In considering whether to finance transport projects, it is World Bank practice to conduct a thorough assessment of the alternative modes of transport available, taking into account social, environmental and economic issues.

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