Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 14 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 23 March 2005. It was answered by Lord Bilston (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 March 2005 on behalf of the Catering Committee.

Catering Select Committee

Question: To ask the honourable Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, what progress has been made by the Director of Catering Services in investigating the feasibility of implementing a strategy to minimise food miles as part of the Refreshment Department's food procurement objectives.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission what progress has been made by the Director of Catering Services in investigating the feasibility of implementing a strategy to minimise food miles as part of the Refreshment Department's food procurement objectives. [222305] Mr. Dennis Turner: I have been asked to reply. I recognise that many customers of the Refreshment Department are supportive of sustainable food initiatives. The Refreshment Department's business plan for 2005-06 acknowledges the need to develop a formal policy on this matter. Subsequent to my answer of 26 October 2004, Official Report, column 1095W, the Refreshment Department Purchasing Manager had a constructive initial discussion with Sustain, an organisation formed in 1999 by merging the National Food Alliance and the Sustainable Agriculture Food and Environment Alliance. Sustain are keen to assist the Department in the development of a responsible purchasing policy that supports sustainable food supplies, including the consideration of food miles. Further progress has been delayed pending completion of organisational changes within Sustain, but the Refreshment Department hopes to be able to pursue this matter over the next few months.

Secondary information