To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Science who has been appointed as environmental officer for the British Antarctic Survey; and what matters were of consideration in deciding the appointment.

Mr. Shears will take up his post on 4 June 1990. The requirement of the post was a minimum of a good honours degree in the environmental sciences and a minimum of four years' postgraduate experience in aspects of environmental management, including waste management, and conservation. Relevant postgraduate qualifications were also sought. Normal Civil Service Commission procedures were followed in making the appointment.