To ask the President of the Council, pursuant to the answer of the Secretary of State for Defence of 12 January 1998, to the hon. Member for Monmouth (Mr. Edwards), Official Report, column 130, if she will make it her policy to provide for the Bill to implement the Ottawa Convention to be subject to pre-legislative scrutiny. [24177]

The Government have already said that they plan to introduce legislation as soon as the Parliamentary timetable allows. We will consider nearer the time the most appropriate way.

To ask the President of the Council which Department will be in charge of the legislation to give effect to the provisions of the Ottawa Convention. [24178]

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is the lead Department.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, pursuant to her answer of 12 January, Official Report, column 86, which programmes will have a lower priority as a result of her policy to give programmes to combat poverty a higher priority; and what reductions in funding these programmes will receive. [24087]

The final allocation of our resources between programmes for 1998–99 and subsequent years is currently being considered. Priority will be given to interventions which combat poverty. The shift in spending priorities will be detailed in our annual report which we expect to publish next month.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, pursuant to her answer of 12 January, Official Report, column 86, what measures she proposes to prevent aid being used for military purchases from countries other than the United Kingdom. [24088]

Department for International Development funding for development projects overseas is subject to existing detailed and stringent procedures involving regular and careful review at the design, implementation and evaluation stages to ensure that they fully meet the developmental purpose for which they are intended, as required in the Overseas Development and Co-operation Act 1980, and are not used for inappropriate military or other purposes.As I made clear in my answer of 12 January 1998, there is not and will not be any link between aid and sales of British arms equipment.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to review the funding for the Coastguard Agency. [22871]

The Government intend to merge the Coastguard Agency and the Marine Safety Agency on 1 April 1998 to create a new Agency, to be known as the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (the Chief Executive of which will be Mr. Maurice Storey, currently a Director of Stena Line UK). The budget for the new Agency in 1998–99 will be higher than the sum of the current year budgets of the two existing agencies. The longer term funding of the Agency is being considered in the context of the Comprehensive Spending Review, in which we shall of course give due priority to safety and counter-pollution activities.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the special advisers in his Department, the Minister to whom each is responsible and the subjects on which they advise. [23193]

Joe Irvin and Joan Hammell advise me on all my areas of responsibility both as Secretary of State and Deputy Prime Minister. Paul Hackett and Darren Murphy are part-time advisers, who together make up the equivalent of 1 full-time adviser's post, and cover regional and local government issues. David Taylor acts as a part-time, unpaid adviser mainly on regeneration and regional issues.Kate Davies and Tony Grayling advise my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport on transport issues.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to review the Use Classes Order 1987. [23681]

There are no plans to review the Order, although we keep under consideration the need for amendments in the light of representations received.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is the acreage of land and its current value that is owned by each of the London borough councils. [23285]

This information is not held centrally.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the present major road (a) developments and (b) improvements that are currently being implemented within the Greater London area. [23290]

Taking "road developments" as the building of new roads and "road improvements" as major enhancements to an existing road, the information for local authority projects costing over £2 million and Highways Agency projects costing over £3 million is as follows. Information on lower value projects, privately promoted road projects and maintenance led projects could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. London-wide traffic management programmes are also excluded.

Road Developments

1. Bexleyheath Southern Relief Road and Pedestrianisation, LB Bexley—the relief road is open to traffic but the pedestrianisation has yet to be completed.

2. Hounslow Town Centre Relief Road, LB Hounslow—the relief road is open to traffic but further works are yet to be completed.

3. Future A12, Hackney—M11 Link Road, Highways Agency—the new road is expected to be open to traffic in mid 1999.

4. Future A13, Wennington—Mar Dyke, Highways Agency—the new road is expected to be open to traffic in late 1998.

5. Future A13, West of Heathway—Thames Avenue, Highways Agency—the new road is expected to be open to traffic in mid 1999.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will carry out an assessment of the impact of his Department's current policies on the (a) income, (b) employment opportunities and (c) living standards, of the poorest 30 per cent. of the population. [23338]

Many of my departments policies directly address the problems of the poorest 30 per cent. of the population. Examples include: social housing provision; many regeneration initiatives; the rough sleepers initiative; the Home Energy efficiency scheme; and measures to promote transport accessibility.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress has been made in improving the record of the water industry in respect of (a) leakage, (b) water quality and (c) value for money for consumers. [23697]

My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister announced at the water summit in May 1997 a 10-point action plan to help secure a reliable, efficient and environmentally sustainable water industry which recognises that its primary duty is to meet the needs of its customers. The Government are looking for a sustained commitment from the water companies to the actions identified and is asking them for updates on their summit-related activities. There has been considerable progress.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many sewage treatment plants in the United Kingdom include ultra-violet treatment systems; and if he will list their locations. [23716]

A list from the Environment Agency on locations of the thirty-five sewage treatment works which include ultra-violet treatment in England and Wales is attached in the table. The information relating to Scotland and Northern Ireland is a matter for my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Scotland and for Northern Ireland respectively.

Waste Water Treatment Works in England and Wales with UV Disinfection as at January 1998
Agency Region	Treatment Works
South West	Lyme Regis
	Exmouth
	Menagwins (St. Austell)
	St. Columb Major
	Gorran Haven
	Ashford (Barnstaple)
	Porthilly (Rock)
	Trecerus (Padstow)
	Porthleven
	St. Agnes
Southern	New Romney (Littlestone)
	Dymchurch
	Camber
Thames	None
Anglian	Newton Marsh
	Mablethorpe
	Wells-Next-The-Sea
	Heacham
	West Mersea
	Kings Lynn
North East	None
North West	Newbiggin
	Ashkham-in-Furness
	Silloth
Midlands	None
Welsh	Newgale
	Aberystwyth
	Llanelli (Bynea)
	Tywyn/Aberdyfi
	Criccieth
	Laugharne
	Amroth
	Tenby
	Dale
	Llangrannog
	Pwllhelli
	Treborth (Bangor)
	Beaumaris

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of ultra-violet treatment of sewage. [23719]

Ultra-violet treatment of sewage effluent can be a cost effective method of achieving microbiological water quality standards at some locations. It has been shown to inactivate a wide range of micro-organisms.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to introduce legislation to require ultra-violet treatment of sewage. [23720]

Legislation is not needed for this. The type of treatment process used to meet required water quality standards is a matter for the discharger and the environmental regulator.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what research he has commissioned into the effectiveness of ultra-violet treatment of sewage. [23718]

The Department published comprehensive reviews of sewage disinfection techniques in 1988 and 1992, both of which examined the effectiveness of ultra-violet treatment. They were published by Consultants in Environmental Sciences Ltd. A further review, jointly funded by this Department, the Environment Agency and the water industry, on the fate of enteroviruses through sewage treatment processes, is currently in progress.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when the Government's proposals on the right to roam will be published; and if he will make a statement. [23819]

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects the consultation paper on access to the countryside to be published. [23808]

The Government plan to issue for consultation shortly their proposals for giving greater freedom for people to explore open countryside.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received about Circular 18/94, in relation to the Police and Criminal Justice Act 1994; and if he will make a statement. [23831]

Sections 77 to 79 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 give all local authorities powers to deal with unauthorised camping, and my Department's Circular no. 18/94, "Gypsy Sites Policy and Unauthorised Camping", gives advice to local authorities on the use of these powers.My Department has received a number of representations, both from local authorities and from groups representing gypsies and travellers, about the advice in Circular 18/94. We have commissioned a research project to consolidate existing good practice for local authorities in dealing with unauthorised camping, with a view to producing guidance. We will be consulting the Local Government Association and others on a draft of that guidance in the spring.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the assessed (a) short and (b) long term health risks to professional divers; and if he will make a statement. [23813]

The assessed short-term health risks to professional divers include:

1. decompression illness ("bends");

2. barotrauma;

3. cerebral arterial gas embolism;

4. inert gas narcosis;

5. oxygen toxicity;

6. hypoxia (lack of oxygen);

7. carbon dioxide toxicity;

8. toxicity from other gases, for example carbon monoxide contamination;

9. hyperthemeia and hypothermia;

10. high pressure neurological syndrome in deep diving;

11. infections;

12. transient decreases in haemoglobin levels and lung function during the period of saturation dives.

The longer-term health effects of professional diving are becoming better appreciated as medical knowledge has increased. These longer-term health effects include:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the number of United Kingdom nationals who have registered as professional divers broken down by category for each year since 1979. [23817]

All divers at work who dive in UK waters are required to hold a diving certificate issued by the Health and Safety Executive under the Diving Operations at Work Regulations 1981. The following information shows the numbers of UK nationals who have been awarded HSE diving certificates since 1981. Divers working in the UK before the Regulations came into force were exempted from this requirement and consequently do not appear in the table.

	Type of Diving Certificate awarded
Year	Part 1	Part 2	Part 3	Part 4	Total
1982	341.00	162.00	181.00	220.00	904.00
1983	332.00	153.00	129.00	101.00	715.00
1984	357.00	143.00	162.00	118.00	780.00
1985	443.00	148.00	157.00	113.00	861.00
1986	298.00	94.00	118.00	116.00	626.00
1987	103.00	98.00	110.00	133.00	444.00
1988	110.00	118.00	150.00	168.00	546.00
1989	162.00	147.00	167.00	165.00	641.00
1990	214.00	120.00	226.00	156.00	716.00

	Type of Diving Certificate awarded
Year	Part 1	Part 2	Part 3	Part 4	Total
1991	272.00	98.00	277.00	427.00	1,074.00
1992	212.00	56.00	241.00	338.00	847.00
1993	224.00	73.00	277.00	409.00	983.00
1994	294.00	46.00	306.00	391.00	1,037.00
1995	187.00	36.00	274.00	407.00	904.00
1996	158.00	13.00	144.00	272.00	587.00
1997	179.00	24.00	130.00	162.00	495.00

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions who is responsible for the hyperbaric medical monitoring of professional divers once they have left the profession. [23816]

There is no statutory requirement for the hyperbaric medical examination of professional divers once they have left the profession.However, the Health and Safety Executive is currently commissioning further research into the potential long-term health effects associated with working in hyperbaric environments. The subject group will include former commercial divers.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how much money offshore operators have contributed to hyperbaric medical research since 1979. [23814]

The total cost of hyperbaric medical research projects carried out by the Offshore Safety Division of the Health and Safety Executive (and the then Department of Energy) since 1979 is £6.2 million. The offshore industry's contribution is estimated as £1.4 million (approximately 20 per cent. of the total cost).

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list environmental tobacco smoke as a hazardous substance under health and safety at work legislation. [23811]

There are at present no plans to do so. However we intend to review our policies on control of environmental tobacco smoke when we have considered the forthcoming report from the Scientific Committee on Tobacco and Health.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the threat to (a) the environment and (b) public health of residual contamination which remains on the Millennium Experience site. [24220]

The Exhibition site has been subject to detailed ground investigation and assessment by British Gas Properties/Port Greenwich Ltd. who were the original owners and original polluters, to provide information on the presence of contaminants. English Partnerships bought the site from British Gas early in 1997 and has carried out further investigations.These assessments have allowed English Partnerships to carry out a safe, practical strategy for the remediation of the site. Rehabilitation proposals have been drawn up in accordance with current guidance from the Interdepartmental Committee for Redevelopment of Contaminated Land and the Environment Agency. The overall rehabilitation strategy has also been discussed and agreed with both the Environment Agency and the Environmental Health Department of the London Borough of Greenwich. All aspects of the remediation work have been carried out to statutory health and safety standards.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if contaminated material found at the site of the Millennium Experience has been disposed of off-site. [24219]

The remediation strategy has involved the excavation of contaminated soils, treatment of the soils on site, the maximum re-use of material on the site and the disposal off-site of some of the soil to licensed landfill sites. The selection of sites for disposal is the responsibility of the contractors who, under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, operate under a duty of care in the waste handling chain. All the sites used have been licensed by the relevant authority and are suitable for the material being disposed there.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if contaminated material has been buried on the site of the Millennium Experience. [24221]

Low levels of contaminated material, have been left in situ in accordance with current Government guidance for contaminated land. The site has been capped with a multi-layered clean-engineered capping material to isolate the site users from this material. Risk assessments have been carried out and the remediation has been designed to protect all possible users from harm.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what estimate his Department has made of the contribution of aircraft pollution to global warming. [24329]

Aircraft currently contribute some 2–3 per cent. of anthropogenic CO₂ emissions. They also emit NOx, which at altitude may cause a similar global warming effect. The total aircraft contribution to global warming is estimated as being 0.05 watts per sq m (Wm-2), compared with the combined effect of industrial emissions of 2 to 3 Wm-2. However, aviation emissions are expected to increase in the future because of the forecast world-wide growth in aviation. My Department will continue to work through the International Civil Aviation Organisation toward stricter emissions standards and to sponsor research on aviation and the environment.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the landing charges for comparable airliners at the main United Kingdom and international airports and the changes in Heathrow landing charges since BAA's privatisation. [24066]

The table shows the charges for four typical airliners at Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester airports compared with other major European airports in ECU.Since privatisation in 1987, landing and parking charges at Heathrow for a Boeing 757–200 (an example of an aircraft that has been operating throughout the period) have risen by 62.9 per cent. in the peak period and by 69.7 per cent. off-peak. When allowance is also made for passenger charges the increase has been 12.1 per cent. in the peak (to £2,114) and 142 per cent. off peak (to £996). (These calculations have been made assuming that the Boeing 757–200 is operating an international flight with three quarters of its 196 seats occupied and that it will spend one hour parked at Heathrow).

Airport related charges per turn round 1995–96 (in ECU)
Airport	Inter-continental Boeing 747–400 (peak)	Intra-EU A320–100 (off-peak)	Intra-EU Boeing 737–400 (off-peak)	Domestic ATR 42 (peak)
Heathrow	6,552	2,067	3,798	499
Gatwick	6,560	1,703	2,777	393
Manchester	7,527	2,361	3,582	253
Amsterdam	6,531	1,798	2,769	420
Brussels	6,229	1,623	2,552	157
Frankfurt	7,923	2,272	2,933	624
Paris Charles de Gaulle	7,176	1,601	2,023	274

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what were the findings of the Marine Safety Agency's investigation into the recent crossing to Spain of the Pride of Bilbao; and what assessment he has made of the Agency's investigation. [24056]

I have asked the Chief Executive of the Marine Safety Agency, Mr. R.M. Bradley, to write to the hon. Member.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the ability of Shropshire County Council to meet its statutory obligations in the next financial year within his proposed financial settlement. [24431]

The Secretary of State has proposed for consultation that Shropshire's Standard Spending Assessment (SSA) in 1998–99 should be £170.325 million. SSAs are the Government's view of the level of net revenue expenditure that it would be appropriate for each local authority to incur, given overall national resources, to provide a level of service which is consistent across all local authorities. SSAs are calculated by formulae which use objective measures of spending need. We take account of statutory obligations when setting the level of SSA.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the United Kingdom record on child pedestrian accidents; and if he will make a statement on the progress of initiatives in this area. [24469]

The United Kingdom has one of the best road safety records in the world, but progress overall on child pedestrian safety has not been as good as in other areas. The previous administration set a target to reduce child pedestrian deaths from 1.3 to 1.0 per 100,000 children by the year 2000 using a combination of engineering, enforcement and education measures. In 1996 there were 1.1 child pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 children aged 0 to 14. Since then we have launched the `Kerbcrafe initiative designed to encourage local communities to play a part in helping young children to understand the importance of road safety. Improving child safety will be one of the issues addressed in the road safety strategy exercise announced on 15 October.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will make an announcement about the future funding of London Underground, with particular reference to capital investment. [24671]

We are urgently developing proposals for a public/private partnership to provide London Underground with the funding it needs to increase investment and achieve the Underground that Londoners deserve. We will make an announcement when we have reached a decision.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many complaints were received by the rail users' consultative committees about the services provided by Virgin Trains during (a) the quarter ended 31 December 1997 and (b) the equivalent period in 1996. [24771]

The Rail Users' Consultative Committees' complaints figures for the quarter ending 31 December 1997 are currently being collated by the Central Rail Users' Consultative Committee. I will write to the hon. Member when the figures requested are available and will place a copy of my letter in the Library of the House.The complaints figures requested for 1996 are not available. Virgin Trains did not commence operation of passenger rail services until 5 January 1997.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on where the offices of the Regional Development Agency for the Eastern Region will be sited. [24497]

It is not for Government to dictate where the Agency will be located. The agency itself will be best placed to decide where its offices should be.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on (a) the current delay in the development of the new air traffic control centre at Swanwick and (b) the implications for the proposed contract for the new Scottish centre at Prestwick. [24143]

The Chief Executive of National Air Traffic Services Ltd. (NATS) announced in July 1997 that there would be a delay to the operational date of the Swanwick centre. Following a review of the project plan, and consultation with NATS staff, users and the Government, the Board of the Civil Aviation Authority agreed a revised operational date of 1999–2000. NATS remain confident that this revised date is achievable, and have developed a robust and flexible implementation plan to bring the project to completion.To date, the delay to the operational date of the Swanwick centre has had no impact on the proposed contract for the New Scottish Centre at Prestwick.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will list the coastal towns in Wales whose sewage receives ultra-violet treatment; and if he will list those towns for which ultra-violet treatment is proposed. [22027]

I am advised by the Environment Agency that ultra violet treatment has been installed at the following sewage treatment works operated by Dwr Cymru Cyf, some of which receive effluent from more than one location.

• Llanelli
• Laugharne
• Amroth
• Tenby
• Dale
• Newgale
• Llangrannog
• Aberystwyth
• Tywyn/Aberdyfi
• Criccieth
• Pwllheli
• Treborth (Bangor)
• Beaumaris.

Dwr Cymru has stated that its long-term goal is to provide disinfection at all its coastal sewage treatment works.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he will take to assist communities affected by unauthorised encampments of travellers in Flintshire. [24159]

Land authorities and the police have powers under sections 66 and 77–79 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 to direct unauthorised campers, including travellers, to leave land where they are camped without permission.Although these powers are discretionary, local authorities and the police have wide experience of dealing with unauthorised encampments and it is for them to decide whether the use of the powers is necessary.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to ensure that the development of literacy in the Welsh language is included in the Government's plans to concentrate on maths and literacy in schools. [24292]

English and Welsh are dealt with on a basis of equality in the targets we have set for improving standards of literacy. An additional £1.5 million will be available in 1998–99 through the Grants for Education Support and Training Programme to support the development of literacy strategies covering English and Welsh. Local Education Authorities will be able to use these funds in ways which reflect their own language policies.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps the Government are taking to ensure that Welsh farmers receive their grant payments on time. [24294]

Significant overtime is being worked in the Welsh Office Agriculture Department's Divisional Offices, to help cope with the current delays in getting payments out to farmers. In 1997–98, the Welsh Office is investing an additional £1.4 million in better IT equipment and systems for the Agriculture Department, to secure long-term improvements. An Information Systems Strategy is examining options for investment in new IT programmes. In common with other aspects of delivery of services by Government, administration of Common Agricultural Policy schemes in the UK is being examined as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review.

To ask the Attorney-General if he will make a statement on the role of the Serious Fraud Office in investigating fraud against the European Union. [22338]

The role of the Serious Fraud Office is to investigate and where appropriate prosecute those suspected of serious or complex fraud. The Director of the SFO takes the public interest into account in deciding whether to investigate an allegation of fraud. The fact that the fraud is against local or central government, including frauds involving European Union funds, would be a factor which tends to favour an investigation. The Director may also use her investigating powers to assist other judicial or prosecuting authorities abroad who may be investigating such cases of fraud.

To ask the Attorney-General what representations he has received on the effect on morale in the Crown Prosecution Service of extending their rights of audience. [22340]

I know from discussions with members of the Crown Prosecution Service at all levels that the rights already granted are very welcome.

To ask the Attorney-General what plans he has to reform the operation of the Treasury Solicitor's Office. [22339]

The Treasury Solicitor's Department is currently carrying out a Comprehensive Spending Review of its objectives and spending programmes, on which decisions will be made in due course. Other than that, I have no plans to reform the Department's operations at present.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport when he expects digital television and digital radio to be available in North-East Lancashire. [23374]

The BBC and the Independent Television Commission (ITC) are responsible for planning the transmission of digital terrestrial television services. At present, plans are being formulated for the launch phase of digital television services from 81 transmission sites. I understand that the Winter Hill and Pendle Forest transmitters, which are both included in the 81 site plan, will provide digital terrestrial television services to North-East Lancashire. However, the precise coverage will not be known before transmission actually begins. Winter Hill should broadcast from the launch of digital terrestrial transmissions scheduled for later this year and Pendle Forest within 16 months of the launch.The BBC has already commenced the transmission of digital radio services, and estimates that its national radio services will reach 60 per cent. of the UK population from twenty seven transmitter sites. I understand these BBC services are already available to significant parts of Lancashire. Increasing coverage, including the provision of services from the Pendle Forest relay, will be considered by the BBC as part of subsequent phases of development. The Radio Authority plans to advertise the national commercial digital radio multiplex in March and the projected speed of roll-out of the services it is to carry is one of the factors to be assessed in determining which applicant receives the licence. A local multiplex licence for Central Lancashire is scheduled to be advertised by the Radio Authority in January 2000.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) which local authority areas with populations of more than one million have (a) failed to win and (b) failed to propose a millennium project of £1 million or more; [24532](2) what audit the Millennium commissioners originally undertook to establish what projects of £50 million or more were appropriate for the United Kingdom; and what were their findings; [24531](3) how many projects have been commissioned by the Millennium Commission to date; of those how many

These are matters for the Millennium Commission. I shall reply to my hon. Friend in my capacity as Chairman of the Commission, and place copies of my reply in the Libraries of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of (a) the stockpiles of and (b) the availability of production facilities for (i) chemical agent VX, (ii) ricin and (iii) anthrax in Iraq. [22973]

Before the Gulf war, Iraq had developed a significant chemical and biological warfare capability, a capability which she has since admitted using against Iran and has also deployed against her own people. The valuable work of the United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) over the past seven years has reduced, but not entirely eliminated, Iraq's capability in this field.The possibility therefore, that Iraq retains a small number of chemical and biological agents, possibly including VX agent, ricin and anthrax, cannot be ruled out.It has not been possible, for example, to confirm that all the VX agent which Iraq claims to have produced has been destroyed.UNSCOM has reported the supervised destruction of a pilot VX production plant. But the production of small quantities of VX could still be concealed within university laboratories or the chemical industry.In addition, whilst Iraq has told UNSCOM that it examined the potential of the plant toxin ricin without success, we cannot confirm that she has given a truthful account of her interest in ricin or that she has destroyed all stocks of the anthrax spores which she claims to have done. Again, Iraq could conceal production of biological warfare agents in facilities associated with biomedical research.Even if she does not possess such stocks, Iraq could be capable of producing small quantities of chemical and biological agents; a significant capability. Since we cannot vouch for Iraq's intentions in the future, UNSCOM's work must continue until the UN Security Council are satisfied that Iraq is complying with all relevant resolutions of the United Nations.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received from Portsmouth City Council requesting information concerning the dumping of (a) radioactive and (b) low-grade radioactive waste in the Portsmouth area. [23332]

Officials within the Ministry of Defence have received a number of requests for information concerning the dumping of radioactive waste from Portsmouth City Council. This has been supplied, subject to the constraints laid down in the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what records his Department has collated in respect of the dumping of (a) radioactive and (b) low-grade radioactive waste in the Portsmouth City Council area; and if he will make the records available to the Council's Environmental Health Officer; [23377](2) what records his Department holds on the dumping of radioactive waste and low-grade radioactive waste in

Although the Radioactive Substances Act 1960 does not apply to the Ministry of Defence, radioactive waste is disposed of from MOD sites under arrangements with the Environment Agency similar to those required by the Act. As part of these arrangements, information on local disposals is passed to the relevant councils. The MOD also holds some reports which relate to activities pre-dating these arrangements, most notably at Aldershot. In that instance both Rushmoor Borough Council and the Environment Agency are involved in discussions about the site. Information is also made available in response to specific requests under the terms of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what assessment he has made of the research conducted by the Medical Education Department of Dundee University into atomic test veterans' health; [23798](2) what recent communications his Department has had with the Australian Government concerning the study being undertaken by Dr. Rabbitt-Roff of Dundee University on the effects on British veterans' health of the atmospheric atomic tests conducted by the United Kingdom in Australia. [23809]

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the research work undertaken on behalf of the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association by Dr. Rabbitt-Roff. There is no substantive evidence in her work which would undermine in any way our total confidence in the conclusions of the report published by the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) in 1993 which were that participation in the testing programme had not had a detectable effect on the participants' expectation of life or on their risk of developing cancer or other fatal diseases. Unlike the NRPB findings, which were published in the British Medical Journal, the BNTVA's studies have not been peer reviewed and published in scientific journals.My Department has not discussed this matter with the Australian Government.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans the Royal Navy has to purchase the Advanced Tomahawk Weapon Control System; and what estimate he has made of the cost. [24359]

A submarine variant of the Advanced Tomahawk Weapon Control System is being purchased as part of the arrangements under which Tomahawk missiles are being procured. The cost of the ATWCS is some £18 million.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans the Royal Navy has to upgrade its Tomahawk Missiles to Block IV standard; and at what cost. [24360]

There are no plans to upgrade Royal Navy Tomahawk Missiles to Block IV standard.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if it is his intention to continue the United Kingdom commitment to NATO in respect of providing the European Regional Test Centre for interchangeability and interoperability of NATO small arms ammunition; and if he will make a statement; [24103](2) if the collective decision of NATO in 1993 that the European Regional Test Centre for testing certain ammunition should be based at Pendine has been amended following Pendine's certification; and if he will make a statement; [24101](3) if his Department or the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency have identified a single facility with the required range, size, technical facilities and experienced staff as an alternative to the European Regional Test Centre at Pendine; and if he will make a statement. [24102]

[holding answer 20 January 1998]: NATO's 1993 certification of the European Regional Test Centre facility at DERA Pendine has not been amended.There are potentially a number of other sites in the UK that could conduct the small arms work for both MOD and NATO needs. The aim of the Ministry of Defence is to provide these capabilities in the most cost effective way to ensure best value for money for the UK and our NATO allies.There are presently no plans to discontinue provision of a European Regional Test Centre for small arms ammunition. Our commitment is dependent on suitable and affordable facilities being available.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much was charged by the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency for the operation of the European Regional Test Centre for small and medium calibre ammunition at Pendine in each of the financial years since Pendine was certified. [24104]

[holding answer 20 January 1998]: This is a matter for the Chief Executive of the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA). I have asked the Chief Executive to write to the hon. Member.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 31 July 1997, Official Report, column 473, which of the types of WE-177 Bomb have been assigned to the Royal Air Force. [24763]

All three variants of the WE-177 bomb have been in operational service with the Royal Air Force. As the hon. Gentleman will be aware from the reply my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence gave on 31 July 1997, Official Report, column 473, the last of these bombs will shortly be withdrawn from service.A maritime version of the Type A bomb was also in service with the Royal Navy until 1992.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what targets his Department sets in respect of the recruitment of ethnic minority personnel into the Armed Forces. [25490]

We have made clear, on a number of occasions, our determination that the Armed Forces should better reflect the ethnic composition of our society. As part of this commitment I am pleased to announce that, for the year starting in April, the goal for each Service will be that 2 per cent. of new recruits should be from the ethnic minorities, with that figure rising annually by 1 per cent. so that it reaches 5 per cent. by the end of the financial year 2000–02 and in time reflects the proportion of people from ethnic minority communities in the wider population.These recruiting goals represent a major challenge for all in the Services, especially recruiting personnel, and will be reflected in the Ministry of Defence Departmental Plan. I am confident that they are realistic and provide a strong indication of our wish to make real, tangible progress in this area.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions have been held with the French authorities on joint strategic submarine patrols; and if he will make a statement. [24674]

Officials have discussed a wide range of subjects with their French counterparts relating to the maintenance of effective deterrence in changing circumstances within the Joint Nuclear Commission. There have been no discussions on the issue of joint UK/French deterrent patrols.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his Answer of 12 November 1997, Official Report, column 580, on Exercise Senator 97, in which part of Lincolnshire and at which MoD sites the exercise took place; how many county councils (a) participated and (b) were invited to participate in the exercise; and what lessons were learnt from this exercise. [24764]

Exercise SENATOR 97, which took place between 22 and 25 September 1997, was located in the Grantham area of Lincolnshire with the Strategic Co-ordination Group, under Lincolnshire Police chairmanship, based at Lincolnshire Fire Brigade Headquarters, Lincoln. Prince William of Gloucester Barracks was used as a convenient location for the main MoD response forces. Lincolnshire County Council participated in the exercise and was the only County Council invited to participate. Lessons learnt from the exercise will be reflected in an all-agency post exercise report which will be placed in the Library of the House in due course.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his Department's policy regarding the recycling of information technology equipment within his Department and relevant agencies and to other Government departments or agencies; and what arrangements have been made in this respect. [23277]

[holding answer 21 January 1998]: Since April 1994, a contract has been in place providing for the recycling of laser printer and ink jet printer cartridges. A scheme to recycle mobile phones is currently in negotiation.The recycling of information technology equipment such as personal computers is currently the responsibility of local MOD management units and Agencies, and occurs either within their organisations or via third party suppliers. The Department is, however, currently seeking to let a contract for recycling of information technology equipment. When a central contract is in place all MOD establishments and Agencies will be able to take advantage of this arrangement.We have no specific arrangements covering the recycling of information technology equipment with other Government Departments or Agencies. However, the Disposal Sales Agency have in place arrangements to dispose of IT equipment which is unsuitable for recycling within the Department on the open market once it has been cleared of all classified information. Eighteen other Government Departments and Agencies outside the MOD currently make use of these arrangements to dispose of their IT equipment.

To ask the Prime Minster how many people work for him at No. 10 Downing Street; and of these how many are paid (a) from public funds and (b) by the Labour Party. [23025]

[holding answer 15 January 1998]: There were 152 people working at No. 10 Downing Street on 1 January 1998. Of these, 145 were paid from public funds and seven Political Office staff were paid by the Labour Party.

To ask the Prime Minister what discussions he has had with the right hon. Member for Yeovil (Mr. Ashdown) about the successor to Sir Leon Brittan as European Commissioner. [23711]

None.

To ask the Prime Minister what discussions he has had regarding the replacement British European Commissioner at the end of Sir Leon Brittan's term of office. [23712]

The members of the Commission were appointed for a five year period, ending on 6 January 2000.Announcements will be made in the usual way in due course.

To ask the Prime Minister if he will publish his response to the British North America Committee on millennium compliance issues. [23558]

[holding answer 16 January 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the statement my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster made to the House on 27 November 1997, Official Report, columns 1104–05.

To ask the Prime Minister what is his Department's policy regarding the recycling of information technology equipment within his Department and relevant agencies and to other Government departments or agencies; and what arrangements have been made in this respect. [23280]

[holding answer 21 January 1998]: For this purpose my office is part of the Cabinet Office. I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Public Service on 21 January 1998, Official Report, column 600.

To ask the Prime Minister when he was informed that the procedures for joining the Schengen Agreement under the Treaty of Amsterdam would be subject to unanimity. [24053]

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him today by the Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Newcastle upon Tyne, North (Mr. Henderson), on 21 January 1998, Official Report, column 540.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list those visits made within the United Kingdom since 1 May on which (a) he and (b) other Ministers within his Department have been accompanied under Rule 83 of the Ministerial Code indicating (i) those persons accompanying and (ii) the cost to public funds. [23761]

[holding answer 19 January 1998]:(a) (i) I was accompanied by my partner, Ms Gaynor Regan, on two visits within the UK. She accompanied me to CHOGM in Edinburgh on 23–27 October 1997. We travelled by RAF aeroplane. On 14 November 1997 I flew on a RAF aeroplane for an emergency meeting on Iraq with the US Secretary of State, Mrs. Albright. Ms Gaynor Regan accompanied me on that RAF aeroplane to Edinburgh. We both flew back commercially.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the future progress of the EU-Algeria Partnership Agreement; and what assessment he has made of Algeria's commitments under the human rights clause of that Agreement. [24443]

The EU/Algeria Association Agreement is part of the Euro-Med process begun in Barcelona in 1995 and will provide for liberalised trade an enhanced political dialogue. The European Commission is currently negotiating the terms of the Agreement, including commitments by both parties to respect human rights and democratic principles. The EU/Algeria Association Council set up under the agreement will allow discussion of compliance with all parts of the agreement once it enters into force.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his oral answer of 13 Janaury 1998, Official Report, column 141, what assessment he has made of the advantages of providing the BBC World Service in key languages. [24783]

Broadcasting in vernacular languages is an important element in the World Service's ability to reach its target audience. We and the World Service keep its 44 language services under constant review. New languages are introduced and others closed down to meet new priorities.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his answer of 12 January 1998, Official Report, column 23, if he will list the equivalent figures for the use and cost of VIP facilities at Heathrow Airport for 1996. [24500]

The information is in the following table.

(a)	Number	(b)	Cost (£)
May	902	May	172,755.55
June	1,097	June	210,102.92
July	1,176	July	225,233.40
August	1,109	August	212,401.22
September	1,375	September	263,346.87
October	934	October	178,884.35
November	1,043	November	199,760.57

The figures include use of VIP facilities by the British Council and the Bank of England. They also include VAT. The figures include use by Foreign and Commonwealth VIP visitors as well as HMG Ministers.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list by (a) month and (b) Minister the number of times each Government Minister has used VIP facilities at Heathrow Airport in the course of their official travel since 1 May. [24494]

Details of FCO Ministers are as follows:

	Secretary of State	Mr. Lloyd	Mr. Fatchett	Mr. Henderson
1997
May	3	—	2	3
June	5	—	3	4
July	5	1	4	3
August	1	—	—	1
September	2	1	3	4
October	2	—	—	6
November	4	1	3	4
December	1	1	—	2
1998
January	1	1	2	—

Baroness Symons has not used the VIP facilities at Heathrow Airport during this period.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the hon. Member for Walsall, North will receive a reply to his letter of 9 December regarding a constituent. [24519]

My noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Baroness Symons, sent a letter to my hon. Friend about this application on 20 January.

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will carry out an assessment of the impact of his Department's current policies on the (a) income, (b) employment opportunities and (c) living standards of the poorest 30 per cent. of the population. [23346]

This Department's aim is to ensure that all people, irrespective of means, can uphold their rights and fulfil their obligations, in particular through efficient and affordable courts and legal services, and by developing the civil law to meet society's needs. We will evaluate our policies in line with this aim.

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will make a statement on the current status of proposals relating to the moving of Chelmsford magistrates court to Witham; and when he expects a final decision on this proposal to be taken. [24496]

The Department has no proposals in respect of magistrates courts in Essex.Decisions concerning the future of magistrates courts is for the relevant magistrates courts committee to determine. A local authority that contributes financially may appeal to the Lord Chancellor against a proposed closure. The procedure for such appeals is set out in section 56 of the Justices of the Peace Act 1997. In the absence of an appeal, however, the Lord Chancellor plays no part in the process.I understand from the Essex magistrates courts committee that there are no current plans to move the Chelmsford magistrates court to Witham.

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, pursuant to his answer of 15 January 1998, Official Report, column 278, what is the share of the cost of the official visit to Trinidad and Tobago attributable to Lady Irvine's attendance. [24499]

Pursuant to my answer of 15 January 1998, Official Report, column 278 and my subsequent letter to the hon. Gentleman (a copy of which has been placed in the Library), the share of the cost of the official visit to Trinidad and Tobago attributable to Lady Irvine's attendance is approximately £2,350. The largest element of this is one business class return air fare from Heathrow to Port of Spain.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department in respect of each police authority which has made CS gas available to officers, if he will give, the date of introduction, stating (a) how many cases of CS cross-contamination have been reported, (b) how many officer days have been lost, (c) how many claims for compensation have been filed and (d) how many awards of compensation have been made, giving the amount in each case. [24302]

[holding answer 20 January 1998]: This information is not held centrally. At least 35 forces have introduced, or plan to introduce, CS spray. I am told that there are few, if any, cases in which officers are seriously affected by CS cross-contamination.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many of the 588 officers who suffered cross-contamination effects during the CS Gas trials between 1 March and 31 August 1996 have (a) reported this cross-contamination as minor injury, (b) taken time off work as a consequence, (c) claimed compensation and (d) been awarded compensation, stating the amount in each case. [24283]

This information was not collected. The information available about cross-contamination suffered by police officers during the trials is contained in Chapter 4 of the Home Office Police Research Group report which was published in December 1996. A copy of the report is in the Library.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimates he has made of staffing levels at the Immigration and Nationality Directorate offices at Croydon on (a) 1 April 1998, (b) 1 April 1999 and (c) 1 April 2000. [24549]

Current estimates are that there will be surpluses of Immigration and Nationality Directorate staff in Croydon of between 170 to 467 in the financial year 1998–99 and of a further 150 to 250 in 1999–2000.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what time scale he has planned for the implementation of the new computer system at the Immigration and Nationality Directorate offices at Croydon in respect of (a) initial installation, (b) pilot phase and (c) full operation. [24548]

The contract to design, build, install and operate the new computer system in the Immigration and Nationality Directorate was awarded to Siemens Business Services under the Private Finance Initiative. It is accordingly for Siemens to plan the implementation, and the contract places on it the main financial consequences of any delay. There has recently been a delay of a few months to the original timetable for the installation and piloting of the solution. Siemens is preparing detailed plans and will shortly propose revised dates. I shall write to the hon. Gentleman when these have been agreed.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what sum is budgeted for the operation of the Immigration and Nationality Directorate offices at Croydon for the years (a) 1997–98, (b) 1998–99 and (c) 1999–2000. [24547]

The information requested is not available because the Immigration and Nationality Directorate budget is not apportioned by location or building. The total budget for the Directorate is £226 million in 1997–98 and £223.7 million in 1998–99. The budget for 1999–2000 will be set following consideration of the Comprehensive Spending Review.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applicants for asylum to the Immigration and Nationality Directorate are awaiting decisions on their cases; how many refused applications are awaiting appeal; what is the date of the oldest application still to be processed; what is the date of the oldest refusal still awaiting appeal; and if he will make a statement. [23918]

As at 31 December 1997, there were 51,795 applications for asylum in the United Kingdom, excluding dependants, awaiting an initial decision. As at the same date, there were 25,555 asylum related appeals awaiting determination. A large backlog of cases has developed over a decade and the Government are reviewing all aspects of asylum law to make the handling of cases faster. This year we are also computerising the case handling procedures which should help speed it up in the future.I regret that reliable data for the other information requested are not available.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the research initiatives involving cannabis which have been granted a licence. [24326]

[holding answer 21 January 1998]: The information requested is as follows:

	Research initiative
Current licences
Professor A. Smith, University of Oxford	Medical—effect of delta-9-THC and cannabis on the bladder reflex
Mr. D. Todd, James Paget Hospital	Medical—investigation claims of therapeutic benefits of cannabis
Dr. R. Pertwee, University of Aberdeen	Medical—neuropharmacology of cannabinoids
Dr. G. Hall, De Montfort University	Studies in Pharmacology

	Research initiative
Dr. D. Harvey, University of Oxford	Studies in Pharmacology
Professor F. Evans, University of London	Studies in Pharmacology
Professor M. Rubenstein, Liverpool John Moores University	Studies in Pharmacology
Professor P. Redfern, University of Bath	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. R. Morgan, University of Sunderland	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. K. Brain, University of Wales	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. J. Smart, University of Portsmouth	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. P. Dewick, University of Nottingham	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. G. Lockwood, University of Manchester	Studies in Pharmacology
Mr. M. Aitken, University of Brighton	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. P. Houghton, Kings College London	Studies in Pharmacology
Professor R. Richards, The Robert Gordon University	Studies in Pharmacology
Dr. C. Hunter, University of The West of England	Studies in Forensic Science
Dr. M. Cole, University of Strathclyde	Studies in Forensic Science
Professor D. Cowan, Kings College London	Drugs Testing
Expired licences
Dr. G. M. Stern, Middlesex Hospital	Medical—effects of cannabis on Parkinson's Disease
Dr. P. Taylor, Bethlem Hospital	Medical—effects of cannabis on psychosis
Dr. A. Holdcroft, Hammersmith Hospital	Medical—effects of cannabis on familial Mediterranean fever

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what research has been undertaken by the Government into the legalisation of cannabis following the report of the Wootton Commission. [24769]

Over the 30 years since the Wootton Commission published its report, the Home Office has undertaken studies of prevalence of cannabis (and other drug) misuse and attitudes towards legalising illicit drugs. I understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health that, although his Department has not recently commissioned basic research in this area, his officials, including professionals, are keeping the available research into the risks and medical use of cannabis under review.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the length of time taken between arrest and conviction of criminals. [22336]

Data on the exact period between arrest and conviction are not available. However, the magistrates courts Time Intervals Survey, published three times a year by the Lord Chancellor's Department, collects data on the time between offence and completion of magistrates courts proceedings. The latest available figures show that, in June 1997, the average time for defendants in indictable cases (including triable-either-way cases) was 132 days. This compares with 133 days in June 1996 and 132 in June 1995. Data collected by the Court Service show that the average time between committal and arraignment or start of trial in the Crown Court in 1997 was 12 weeks. This compares with 13 weeks in 1996 and 16 weeks in 1995.The Government are determined to tackle delays in the criminal justice system. Delays impede justice, frustrate victims and bring the law into disrepute. The Government are particularly concerned by delays in dealing with persistent young offenders. A survey was recently conducted to establish a baseline for the Government's pledge to halve the time taken between arrest and sentence for persistent young offenders. That survey indicates that in 1996 the average time was 142 days. Many youth justice practitioners are already making efforts to tackle delay, with Government encouragement. My right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor wrote to the chairmen of youth court panels in May 1997 and a circular issued in October set out good practice and asked local agencies to set up fast-track schemes for persistent young offenders. The Government plan to contact youth justice practitioners in spring 1998 to find out what action has been taken to give effect to the circular's recommendations and, in particular, to establish fast-tracking schemes.Following a public consultation exercise, the Government concluded that many of the recommendations of the Review of Delay in the Criminal Justice System had the potential substantially to reduce delay without impairing the quality of justice and accepted the majority of them. Those recommendations which require legislation are being implemented through the Crime and Disorder Bill currently before Parliament. The main recommendations relate to dealing promptly with straightforward guilty pleas, case management in magistrates' courts, Early Administrative Hearings in contested cases and starting indictable-only cases in the Crown Court.In addition, to reinforce the effectiveness of these new procedures for case preparation and management, the Government will introduce the regime of statutory time limits for the prosecution of criminal cases provided for in the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985 but not yet implemented. Stricter time limits will be set for juvenile than adult cases and even tougher time limits will be imposed for persistent young offender cases.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many vessels sought the assistance of fire services while in (a) territorial waters and (b) international waters in each of the past five yeawrs; of these what was the proportion of (i) bulk carriers, (ii) coastal vessels, (iii) tankers, (iv) warships, (v) fishing vessels and (vi) pleasure craft; and if he will make a statement. [23032]

[holding answer 21 January 1998]: The readily available information on fires on vessels and other water craft at sea attended by local authority fire brigades is given in the table. Information on other types of incidents is not available.

Fires in vessels or water craft at sea attended by local authority fire brigades, by type of vessel, 1992 to 1996
United Kingdom	Number
Type of vessel or water craft	1992	1993	11994	11995	1.21996
Oil tankers	—	—	—	—	—
Defence vessels3	n/a	n/a	—	—	—
Fishing vessels3	n/a	n/a	2	7	1
Small craft, dinghies, etc.	9	13	1	6	6
Houseboats	—	—	—	—	—
Passenger vessels, ferries	—	—	1	—	—
Other ships	—	—	1	1	—
Barges, including narrowboats	—	—	—	—	—
Other water craft	—	—	1	2	—
All vessels	9	13	6	16	7
1 Figures are based on sample records weighted to brigade totals, excluding "late" call and heat and smoke damage incidents (not recorded prior to 1994).
2 Provisional.
3 Included with other ships prior to 1994.

n/a = Not available.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer of 8 December 1997, Official Report column 433, when the copy of the Home Department circular to chief fire officers will be placed in the Library. [24495]

The circular letter which provided guidance to chief fire officers on contingency planning for the year 2000 was issued on 7 January 1998. A copy has now been placed in the Library.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) when he expects to conclude his consideration of Mr. Mohammed Fayed's application for British citizenship; and what factors will influence the timing of his decision; [24776](2) if he will defer making a final decision on Mr. Mohammed Fayed's application for British citizenship until the police have concluded their investigation into the theft of items from a Harrod's safe deposit box. [24777]

It is not our practice to comment upon individual applications for British citizenship. Applications are decided when sufficient information is available for a judgment to be made as to whether or not an applicant meets the statutory requirements for citizenship.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many lawfully held firearms there were in England and Wales at the latest available date. [24362]

On 23 December 1996, there were 418,300 firearms held on 141,900 firearm certificates and 1,335,000 shotguns held on 638,000 shotgun certificates. The number of firearms which do not need to be held on a firearm certificate (i.e. low-powered airguns and antiques held as curiosities or ornaments) is not known.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many firearm licences have been revoked in each of the last 12 months for which figures are available and in total in each of the last five years for which figures are available. [24364]

Statistics on firearm certificates are collected and published as part of an annual exercise and a monthly breakdown is not available. However, the totals for the last five years for which figures are available are as follows:

Year	Shot gun certificates revoked	Firearm certificates revoked
1996	1,163	392
1995	685	206
1994	753	193
1993	687	147
1992	630	146

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list each category of firearm which can be currently held legally by private individuals; how many licences have been issued for each of those categories of firearm in each of the last 12 months for which figures are available and in total in each of the last five years for which figures are available. [24363]

There are three categories of firearm which may legally be held by private individuals. These are firearms for which no certificate is required; firearms which are required to be kept on a police-issued shotgun certificate; and firearms which are required to be kept on a police-issued firearm certificate. Statistics for the latter two categories are collected and published as part of an annual exercise and a monthly breakdown is not available. However, the totals for the last five years for both the issue and renewal of shotgun and firearm certificates are contained in the following table:

Year	Shotgun		Firearm
	Issued	Renewed	Issued	Renewed
1996	25,800	193,100	10,200	38,100
1995	24,800	195,900	10,900	38,500
1994	32,200	201,400	11,700	37,900
1993	31,100	195,800	10,900	37,300
1992	33,000	197,200	10,600	38,500

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on future developments relating to Wandsworth Prison. [24392]

Planned development at Wandsworth prison in 1998–99 includes the following: upgrade of the fire and general alarm system on G, H and K wings; refurbishment of A and B wings; introduction of simple sanitation in the health care centre; provision of a new kitchen and extension of the visits facility. The latter will entail the re-siting of the chapel and gymnasium. The application for a new gymnasium was submitted to Wandsworth Borough Council on 13 January and, if approved, the project will commence later this year.The planning application submitted in May 1997 to provide a pre-release hostel, visitors' reception centre and car park outside the front of the prison will not be taken forward. Following negotiations with Neals Nurseries Ltd., which currently occupies part of this land, the Prison Service have agreed to grant it a further lease but will take back the rest of the land. This includes a stores building formerly owned by Neals Nurseries Ltd. which will be used as a receipt and dispatch store to enable the prison to enhance its industrial activities.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the amount of charges (a) levied and (b) recovered, under the Immigration (Carriers' Liability) Act 1987 on (i) Biman, (ii) British Airways, (iii) PIA, (iv) Air Lanka, (v) Nigeria Airways and (vi) Ghana Airways for each year since 1987 for which figures are available. [23350]

I am unable to disclose the payment record of individual carriers for reasons of commercial confidentiality. However, we are reviewing this policy of non-disclosure and intend to consult Government colleagues on this. I am able to say that a total of £112.8 million had been incurred by all carriers at 31 December 1997, of which £11.4 million (10.1 per cent.) remained outstanding.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to continue the operation of the experimental regime at Colchester Young Offenders Institution. [25491]

The Government are determined to pursue an active regime in Young Offender Institutions (YOIs) as part of their commitment to focus the youth justice system on the prevention of offending by young people. Statutory provision for this is contained in the Crime and Disorder Bill.We are therefore continuing the experimental "high intensity training" regime which the previous Administration established at Thorn Cross YOI. Although, at £22,700 per place, this regime is more expensive than the cost of a typical YOI regime at £17,300 per place, the Thorn Cross programme has been shown to have a more sharply focused and better integrated set of activities. We believe therefore that Thorn Cross represents value for money.However, we have been unable to reach the same conclusion with Colchester. Colchester YOI opened on 20 February 1997, initially for one year. The costs per place at Colchester, at £31,300, have been running at nearly twice those for a typical YOI and nearly £9,000 more than those at Thorn Cross. The Colchester regime has encouraged positive change in attitudes amongst young offenders but the available evaluation has not supported the contention that it has been more effective in preventing re-offending than other initiatives.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many members of the RUC are members of the Sir Robert Peel Memorial Royal Orange Lodge. [20790]

Information on this is not available.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the extent to which the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools has complied with the requirements to provide a neutral working environment. [21595]

None. All specified public bodies are required to carry out a formal review of their employment composition and practices at least once every three years. I understand the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools has complied with this requirement.