Written question asked by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 7 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 July 1998. It was answered by Nick Raynsford (Labour) on Monday, 13 July 1998 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, if in developing his proposals for best value, he will ensure that the Eco Management and Audit Scheme for local government is recognised as an acceptable quality management system.

Answer: Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if in developing his proposals for best value, he will ensure that the Eco Management and Audit Scheme for local government is recognised as an acceptable quality management system. [49893] Mr. Raynsford: Quality Management systems, including Eco Management and Audit Systems (EMAS), will be important management tools in the delivery of best value. However, the extent to which they are used by local authorities will be essentially a matter for them to decide in the light of their own local circumstances and priorities. Where services under best value are to be provided by the private sector, local authorities may specify that contractors establish an EMAS, but in so doing they will need to comply with the EC Procurement Directives.

Secondary information