To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families how much was spent on energy efficiency measures for his Department’s and its predecessor’s estate in each year from 2004 to 2009; what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of that expenditure; and what plans he has for future energy efficiency measures. (280549)

The Department for Children, Schools and Families spent £419,000 on energy efficiency measures on its estate in 2008-09.

While it is not possible to separate energy efficiency works from overall expenditure on refurbishment and renewal works in preceding years, the Department’s overall energy efficiency improved by 3 per cent. between 2006-07 and 2007-08.

The Department is presently developing its investment programme for the current financial year and the effectiveness of any expenditure will be reported in the annual Sustainable Development in Government report.