§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much was spent on food by her Department and by each agency for which it is responsible in(a) 2001–02 and (b) 2002–03; what proportion of that food by value was produced in the United Kingdom; what guidance she has issued to encourage the procurement of home-grown food; and if she will make a statement. [129383]
§ Mr. CabornThe Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) does not directly buy food substances. DCMS opened a staff restaurant on 2 April 2001 and employs a catering organisation to provide the required service. The service provider is encouraged by the Department to purchase ethically and environmentally sound goods where this is practical.
530WAdditionally, the Royal Parks Agency does not operate a system of buying food directly.