Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 20 April 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 27 April 2004. It was answered by Lord Bilston (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 April 2004 on behalf of the Catering Committee.

Catering Select Committee

Question: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee, what steps he is taking to promote the consumption of organic food in House outlets.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee what steps he is taking to promote the consumption of organic food in House outlets. [167785] Mr. Dennis Turner: The Refreshment Department is a member of the Soil Association and recognises the significant demand for organic produce. The Department pursues a policy of purchasing organic produce or ingredients wherever consistent availability and quality can be guaranteed by suppliers, and where it is judged that the price to be passed on to the Department's customers is affordable. The Refreshment Department sells a range of organic foods; the Terrace and `Debate' cafeterias offer an extensive range of organic yoghurts, sandwiches, muffins, biscuits and drinks. All the coffee served in Portcullis House is organically grown and fairly traded. From time to time, promotions are run to promote organic awareness, sometimes in conjunction with regional promotions.

Secondary information