Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 5 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 July 2004. It was answered by Lord Bilston (Labour) on Tuesday, 13 July 2004 on behalf of the Catering Committee.

Catering Select Committee

Question: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee, if he will for environmental reasons replace the sturdy plastic bags provided with purchases in the Debate cafeteria, with paper bags.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee if he will for environmental reasons replace the sturdy plastic bags provided with purchases in the Debate cafeteria, with paper bags. [182864] Mr. Dennis Turner: There are no plans to change the clear plastic carrier bags used in the Debate, which are practical for their purpose. The bags help to reduce queues by allowing cashiers to see the contents without the need for them to be unpacked at the tills, and are sturdy enough to allow customers to carry hot drinks safely to their offices in Portcullis House and the other parliamentary buildings. Indeed, the bags are so sturdy that many of our customers re-use them and we encourage them to do this.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 182864; 423 c1026W
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Environment protection Packaging Paper Plastics Refreshment Department
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk