Written question asked by Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Conservative) on Monday, 13 October 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 October 2003. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Thursday, 16 October 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the implications of the new licensing arrangements on long term investment and job security at quarries in the Vale of York.

Answer: Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the implications of the new licensing arrangements on long-term investment and job security at quarries in the Vale of York. [132269] Mr. Morley: There has not been a specific assessment on the new licensing arrangements on long-term investment and job security at quarries in the Vale of York. The Environment Agency has a duty to consider social and economic, as well as environmental aspects of sustainable development in its licensing policies. As part of the Environment Agency's assessment of any new licence application, it will take into account any relevant considerations. Quarry and mine operators will have the same opportunities as other abstractors to submit a business case to the Environment Agency in support of their licence applications, which can address any social or economic issues including long-term investment needs and effects on employment.

Secondary information