HC Deb 20 October 2003 vol 411 cc442-3W
Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much has been spent by her Department and its agencies on(a) asbestos surveys and (b) the management and removal of asbestos since 1 January 2001; and what budget is available to (i) commission asbestos surveys and (ii) manage and remove asbestos from buildings in (a) 2003 and (b) 2004. [130917]

Ms Hewitt

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) spend on asbestos surveys and on the management and removal of asbestos since 1 January 2001 has been small and the costs for this work are included in the normal operational costs associated with the DTI estate. For 2003 and 2004, there is no specific budget as provision for asbestos surveys and the removal of asbestos from buildings. For those agencies where the Department holds budgetary information, the position is similar.

Letter from Alison Brimelow to Dr. Vincent Cable:

I am replying to your Parliamentary Question 3978 tabled on 16 September 2003, about how much has been spent by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry's Department and its agencies on (a) asbestos surveys and (b) the management and removal of asbestos since 1st January 2001; and what budget is available to (i) commission asbestos surveys and (ii) manage and remove asbestos from buildings in (A) 2003 and (B) 2004.

Of the three properties we administer, only one has any asbestos, and we had a survey done this year costing £1350. As a result we are aware that some remedial work needs to be done. There is no budget provision made for this yet as we are negotiating with the Landlord on the best way to proceed.

With regard to the other buildings in our portfolio, Concept House was built in 1989/91 and does not contain any asbestos. Harmsworth House was completely refurbished before our occupation and also does not contain any asbestos.

Letter from Claire Clancy to Dr. Vincent Cable:

I am responding to your recent Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on behalf of Companies House, which is an Executive Agency of the DTI.

Since 1 January 2001 Companies House has spent £11,500 on asbestos surveys, and £90,724 on the removal of asbestos. No more money has been budgeted to commission surveys as they are now complete. Removal of asbestos in the years 2003 and 2004 will not exceed £50,000 and can be accommodated in the existing budget.