§ Mr. HoramTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many new policy proposals or significant changes in policy were produced in(a) 2002–03 and (b) 2003–04; how many of these were screened for their environmental impacts; and how many were the subject of separate environmental appraisals. [185106]
Mr. Gareth ThomasThe Department for International Development (DFID) recognises that environmental assessment is essential to ensure that environmental sustainability is integrated into international development policy, planning and operations.
All DFID's development initiatives with a spend of more than £1 million are subject to environmental screening, which is also advised for projects of less than £1 million where there is a likelihood of significant environmental impacts. Where appropriate, screening will initiate a more comprehensive appraisal and assessment for policies, plans and programmes. The procedures, and guidance on the screening process, are detailed in DFID's Environment Guide (2003), which is available on the Department's public website www.dfid.gov.uk.
In the last year, the rate of application of environmental screening to projects has almost doubled (from 34 per cent. in 2002–03 to 62 per cent. in 2003–04), following a review and strengthening of the procedures. A new team has been established within DFID to monitor and strengthen these procedures.