To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the Government's purchasing policy in respect of timber from sustainably managed forests. [9534]

[holding answer 21 July 1997]: Decisions regarding the procurement of goods and services, including timber or related products, are the responsibility of individual Departments. In taking such decisions, Departments must have regard to the need to secure best value for the taxpayer's money, to EU and other international rules on procurement and to their strategies for environmentally friendly housekeeping. In pursuing these aims, Departments can be expected to seek timber from sustainable sources where practicable.