To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will change the rules on providing help to firms for which more than 25 per cent. of ownership is in foreign hands. [65029]

[holding answer 27 June 2002]: I am not aware of any such general rules. However, there are certain schemes of assistance which are only open to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). This would exclude a firm which was more than 25 per cent. owned by a non SME, whether that was a UK or overseas undertaking. Whether it is appropriate to extend schemes of assistance to larger companies is a matter to be addressed on a scheme by scheme basis. In some circumstances, though, EC state aid rules would preclude such extensions.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much brownfield land has been redeveloped by each regional development agency in each year since their formation. [66243]

During the three years after the RDAs were created on 1 April 1999 up to the introduction of their Single Programme funding on 1 April 2002, the RDAs reported to each funding Department individually on the outcome of their separate programmes. Brownfield land redevelopment was funded by what is now the Office of my right hon. Friend, the Deputy Prime Minister. Accordingly DTI does not hold any figures for these years.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will introduce measures to reform the Consumer Credit Act 1974 to ensure that time orders can be used to the advantage of debtors in Scotland. [65621]

As part of the Government's review of consumer credit legislation, we will be looking at how we can make the consumer protection measures in the 1974 Act more effective. The Scottish Executive have also recently consulted on the Enforcement of Civil Obligations in Scotland and this consultation mentions time orders under the 1974 Act while recognising that any changes to the 1974 Act would be a reserved matter. The Government will take account of any comments made about time orders under the 1974 Act in our review of consumer credit legislation.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans she has for reform of (a) company law and (b) corporate governance as a result of the WorldCom fraud; and if she will make a statement. [66747]

In February a group was set up to coordinate the response of key regulators to the issues for accounting, auditing and aspects of corporate governance raised in the aftermath of Enron. It will produce an interim report by the end of July. The Government will also publish in July its first formal response to the recommendations of the Company Law Review.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she has reviewed the rules relating to company auditors in light of the situation at WorldCom; and if she will make a statement. [67115]

The Co-ordinating group set up in February to co-ordinate the responses of the key regulators to issues for audit and accounting raised in the aftermath of Enron, and now WorldCom, will produce an interim report by the end of July. The Government have made clear that it is important to restore confidence in the independence of auditors.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what her policy is on multidisciplinary professional practices; and if she will make a statement. [68249]

Multi-disciplinary professional practices can be beneficial for both the parties concerned and consumers. Any restrictions on such practices should be no more than is necessary to ensure that conflicts of interest are avoided, standards of ethical and professional conduct are maintained and consumers are properly protected.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on how successful the UK has been in attracting inward investment. [69036]

With my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, I am pleased to inform the House that the UK is still Europe's top inward investment location, despite a fall from last year's record totals in the number of investment projects and jobs created.Invest.UK has announced in its annual review published today, that for the period between 1 April 2001 and 31 March 2002, the number of direct investment projects by foreign owned companies into the UK reported to Invest.UK by its partner agencies in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the English Regional Development Agencies totalled 764.The UK is an excellent place to do business and this is reflected in our success in attracting consistently high levels of inward investment since Invest.UK was founded in 1977 as the Invest In Britain Bureau. Indeed we continue to be the top inward investment location in Europe.Today's Invest.UK figures show that the UK is not immune from the global economic downturn. New inward investment projects in to the UK have fallen 12 per cent. from last year's record figures. This reflects international investment falls across the world, caused particularly by reduced activity in the technology sectors. In the UK the sharpest fall is in US investment in the technology sectors.In the current economic climate international business is more cautious. Many investors will have postponed decisions until confidence returns and we must be ready to secure these opportunities as recovery comes.I am arranging for a copy of Invest.UK's annual review to be placed in the Libraries of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she will take to encourage employers in the offshore sector to implement the terms of the European Working Time Directive in advance of the date when the directive must be enforced. [68350]

The Government have had regular contacts with both employers and employee representatives in the offshore sector about the implementation of the directive, which is due in August 2003. The Government will carry out a full public consultation on its proposals for implementation. It is for the industry to decide whether to take steps to implement the directive ahead of the August deadline.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proportion of the board members of each regional development agency were (a) living and (b) working in their respective region in (i) 1999,. (ii) 2000, (iii) 2001 and (iv) 2002. [68664]

The information requested can be provided only at disproportionate cost as records containing this information are not held regionally or centrally. However, in each appointment round for board members, an understanding of the issues affecting the region has been a core selection criterion. For example, the current appointment process for board members includes the criterion "Applicants must have a good knowledge of the region, with a good operational network of regional contacts and in-depth experience in at least one area of the RDA's work".

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on her powers to settle disputes over access between oil and gas infrastructure owners and potential third party users. [69676]

Following extensive consultation through the Department's consultation 'Oil and Gas Infrastructure: Guidance on Applications for resolution of Disputes over Third Party Access', the Department has, today, issued guidance to clarify how the Secretary of State would use long standing powers in the Petroleum Act 1998, Pipe-lines Act 1962 and the Gas Act 1995. This Guidance sets out how the Department would handle applications and the principles that would be applied in making a determination.We have also published today a summary of responses to the consultation. Copies of both documents have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the average number of working hours per week is for full-time UK workers; what information she collates on the EU average for full-time workers; and what plans she has to move the UK average closer to the EU average. [66900]

The average number of working hours per week for all full-time workers in the UK was 44.2 in 2000. This data was collected from the EU Labour Force Survey, which is also used to determine the EU average for full-time workers.My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry will be leading a tour, later this year, to examine working practices in the US and in EU member states.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will hold discussions with (a) the European Commission and (b) the French Government on the operation of the French national rules requiring that yachts registered in France must be captained at all times by French nationals, with regard to the freedom of movement of labour within the EU; whether she has assessed the impact of these rules on the employment of UK nationals; and if she will make a statement. [62098]

[holding answer 18 June 2002]: I have been asked to reply.We support the principle of free movement of labour within the EU and the need to ensure that exceptions are clearly justified.Government officials have previously been in contact with the European Commission about the French national rules, which the French Government have argued in the past reflect public duties placed on the captains of French vessels. The Commission has expressed the view that these appear compatible with Community law. My Department will consider any particular case that is brought to our attention.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many petrol stations in the United Kingdom have installed vapour recovery equipment in the last year to comply with EC directives. [65248]

I have been asked to reply.Under Directive 94/63/EC, implemented under the Environment Protection Act 1990, from 31 December 2001 all existing petrol stations in the UK with an annual throughput greater than 500 cu m are required to have installed Stage I petrol vapour recovery controls. It is estimated that this measure is likely to have effected around 1,700 petrol stations in the UK over a six year period, based on 1998 site figures. In England and Wales local authorities are responsible for the implementation of Stage I equipment at petrol stations in their region. In Scotland this is the role of SEPA and in Northern Ireland the local enforcing authority.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how often Ministers in his Department visited United States Government military bases and establishments on United Kingdom territory between 1 January 1997 and 1 January 1999; which Ministers were involved; what the date of the visit was; and which United States military facility was visited on each occasion. [53383]

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 30 April 2002, Official Report, column 745W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what discussions he has held with the Secretary of State for International Development regarding increases in overall weapons capability of (a) India and (b) Pakistan between December 2001 and June 2002; [65430](2) what discussions he has held with the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry regarding increases in the overall weapons capability of

In light of the recent tensions between India and Pakistan, I have discussed the weapon capabilities of India and Pakistan with Cabinet colleagues on several occasions during the period in question.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements are in place for (a) staff consultation, (b) assistance to staff from the employment service and (c) consultation with the local planning authority in respect of the closure of West Dean munitions depot. [65713]

Defence Munitions (DM) entered into formal consultation procedures with the national trade unions on 24 June. Consultation is due to complete on 2 August. Each member of staff at the depot has been given a copy of a consultative document. As part of the Staff consultation process the local trade unions have been invited to an open day on 10 July, to be briefed on the background. conduct and findings of the work which led to the recommendation to close the DM site at Dean Hill.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the consultation period will end on his proposal to close Dean Hill munitions depot; and if he will list the consultees. [67833]

The formal consultation period began with the issue of a Consultative Document on 24 June 2002 and was originally due to complete on 2 August. However, following recent representations from the trade unions the consultation period has been extended by two weeks and will now conclude on 16 August 2002. Formal consultation with the trade unions is being carried out at departmental level, i.e. with the MOD Council of Civil Service Unions (MOD CCSU) and the MOD Industrial Whitley Council (MOD DIWC). For completeness the Defence Police Federation and the Chief Police Officers' Association are also involved in this consultation exercise.The formal consultation process is being supplemented by informal contact with the trade unions and staff within Defence Munitions. Officials of the DM Whitley committees have received personal copies of the consultation document, as has every member of staff in the Dean Hill depot. A copy has also been posted on an internal MOD website. The formal study report has also been sent to key members of the national trade unions and is available to DM staff and other TU representatives upon request. A DM trade union open day has been arranged for 10 July at which DM trade union representatives will hear about the background to the proposal to close the depot.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the impact Apache training will have on Somerset; and if low-flying will be conducted in the county. [67589]

Unfortunately, there are no uninhabited areas of the United Kingdom large enough to meet all our essential military aircraft training needs. It is, therefore. our policy that, in principle, the whole of the United Kingdom is open to low flying by military aircraft in order to spread the disturbance as thinly as possible.The Ministry of Defence is fully committed to ensuring that our relationships with local communities are as harmonious as possible. To that extent, we will do all that we can to keep disturbance to an absolute minimum, while maintaining the training of the armed forces which is vital to their operational readiness. It is inevitable, however, that Somerset will see some proportion of military aircraft activity, including that of the Apache.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many complaints about low-flying military aircraft have been made by (a) residents of the county of Somerset and (b) residents of Taunton Deane in each of the last five years. [68546]

The information requested is set out in the table below for each of the last five training years running from 1 April to 31 March. The numbers quoted will include a small number of inquiries as well as complaints.

Training Year	Complaints from residents of Somerset	Complaints from residents of Taunton Deane
1 April 1997–31 March 1998	241	36
1 April 1998–31 March 1999	224	23
1 April 1999–31 March 2000	236	37
1 April 2000–31 March 2001	195	24
1 April 2001–31 March 2002	230	26

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the pattern of military low flying activity in the United Kingdom during training year 2001–02. [69357]

The ability to fly fast and low continues to be an essential skill in our armoury of tactics. Training for aircrew to achieve and maintain these skills is vital.The amount of low flying training carried out in the UK Low Flying System (UKLFS) during the training year April 2001 to March 2002 was the minimum necessary for aircrew to reach and maintain these skills. Hours booked for low flying training in the UKLFS (excluding the Rotary Wing Dedicated User Areas, where different booking arrangements apply) during this period amounted to an overall increase of 8.7 per cent. compared to the previous training year. It is likely that there are a variety of reasons for this increase, such as preparation for operations, the return of Royal Air Force squadrons from Germany and low flying by the Eurofighter and Apache aircraft in preparation for their introduction into service. Since detailed records of hours booked began in 1995, the annual total has reduced by some 31 per cent.The distribution of low flying training across the UK has not changed significantly over previous years. It is spread as widely as practicable, but for a variety of reasons including population distribution, and geographic and climatic considerations, it is inevitable that some parts of the country will see more low flying than others.I have today placed in the Library of the House a report giving a detailed account of low flying training in the UK Low Flying System for the period April 2001 to March 2002.Further copies of the report can be obtained from the following address: Directorate of Air Staff, Ministry of Defence, Room 6/62, Metropole Building, Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BP or it can be viewed on the MOD's website: www.mod.uk/issues/lowflying.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what capacity of fixed wing aircraft work will be required for the Red Dragon Project in the Defence Aviation Repair Agency; and from where a shortfall will be made up by rotary wing aircraft work. [67733]

Currently, there are 90 aircraft, on average, undergoing work in the St. Athan Fixed Wing Business Unit. Existing plans envisage Red Dragon project would cater for 48 fixed wing aircraft, and takes account of process improvements and future fleet reductions. Filling the facility will be dependent on the Defence Aviation Repair Agency successfully winning competitions for this work after the guaranteed order book expires in April 2004. There are no current plans to transfer rotary wing work to St. Athan.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with (a) the British Embassy in Paris, (b) the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and (c) the French Government concerning the graves of soldiers killed at the Somme. [68611]

I have had no recent discussions with the British embassy in Paris, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission or the French Government about war graves in the Somme. However, the embassy is maintaining close contacts with the French authorities who are involved with proposals for a third airport for Paris. Early indications had suggested this project might affect war grave cemeteries maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in the Chaulnes area of the Somme.The Ministry of Defence has had no further discussions on this subject since the new French Government made clear that it would be looking again, from first principles, at the need for a third airport in the Paris basin. We are monitoring this review process very closely; we do not expect an early conclusion to be reached.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence ( 1) if he will take steps to equalise the pensions paid to former Gurkha soldiers who served with the British forces with the pensions paid to other soldiers; [68452](2) what steps he will take to provide equality of terms and conditions of employment for the Gurkha soldiers serving with the British armed forces. [68453]

I refer my hon. and learned Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Hereford (Mr. Keetch) on 7 May 2002, Official Report, columns 44–45W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many people joined the ranks of the Royal Marines in the past five years; what regions they were from; and how many of them are below the age of 17 years. [68538]

In the last five years a total of 219 officers and 5.379 other ranks (RMORs) have joined the Royal Marines, as follows.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the key targets are for 2002–03 for the chief executive of Service Children's Education. [69356]

The chief executive has been set the following Key Targets for 2002–03:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the talks with India concerning (a) India's acquisition of spare parts and strategic equipment for Indian Air Force Jaguar ground-attack fighters, (b) the purchase of a British aircraft carrier and (c) conclusion of the Hawk-100 Advanced Jet Trainer deal. [66019]

In accordance with his ministerial responsibilities, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence has the opportunity to discuss a range of defence matters, including defence export opportunities, with Ministers and senior officials from the Government of India. The purchase of a British aircraft carrier has not been formally raised by the Indians.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans there are to use the SanEagle for British reconnaissance missions; and if he will make a statement. [67423]

The SanEagle equipment is not part of our current reconnaissance inventory, and is not known to the Ministry of Defence.

To ask the Solicitor-General with reference to the proposal to introduce a system where, before trial, interviews of certain key witnesses are conducted by the prosecutor in a limited category of cases, what categories of cases are being considered; and what criteria were used to establish categories of cases. [59342]

[holding answer 12 June 2002]: No such proposal has been made. The Attorney-General has asked the Director of Public Prosecutions, as part of his review of the handling of the Damilola Taylor murder trial, to consider whether the time has come to introduce a system where, before trial, interviews of certain key witnesses are conducted by the prosecutor in a limited category of cases. The Director is due to report to the Attorney-General later this year and an announcement will be made at that time.

To ask the Solicitor-General what the terms of reference are of the review being undertaken by the DPP in relation to the Damilola Taylor case. [59341]

[holding answer 12 June 2002]: The DPP's review has the following terms of reference:

To review the handling of the Damilola Taylor case, and in doing so,

consider the implications for the conduct of future cases and to make recommendations;

examine whether the time has come to introduce a system where, before trial, the prosecutor in a limited category of cases conducts interviews of certain witnesses.

The DPP is expected to report by the end of August.

To ask the Solicitor-General which of the co-located criminal justice and trial units are located within the court; and what assessment she has made of the benefits of co-locating criminal justice and trial units within the court complex. [59465]

[holding answer 12 June 2002]: There are currently no co-located criminal justice units or trial units located in court accommodation. It follows that no assessment of the benefits of co-locating within the court complex has been made.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on how many occasions in the last 12 months the requirement to engage in a competitive tendering process has been waived by her Department due to national security obligations under paragraph 6(h) of the supply regulations. [62816]

From information held centrally there have been no occasions in the last 12 months when the requirement to engage in a competitive tendering process has been waived by the Department due to national security obligations under paragraph 6(h) of the supply regulations.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the average annual leave entitlement is for staff in her Department in 2002. [64657]

Following machinery of government changes and the creation of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, all staff outside the senior civil service were given an annual leave entitlement of 30 days from 1 August 2001. This was done as one of the first steps towards harmonising terms and conditions of service for the then ex-MAFF and ex-DETR staff who joined together to form the new Department.The annual leave entitlement for members of the senior civil service is currently set by Cabinet Office at 30 days.Staff working part-time or alternative working patterns are entitled to a proportional amount based on either the number of days or hours they work.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the EU directives relating to her Department which have been (a) amended and (b) repealed in 2002. [64940]

In answer to part (a) the table lists directives adopted in 2002, for which DEFRA is the lead Department, which amend previously adopted directives alongside the numbers of the amended directives.In answer to part

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the total amount of fines levied against those prosecuted for littering offences in the United Kingdom was in each of the last five years; and if she will make a statement. [64732]

The total amount of fines levied with respect to Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) issued for littering offences in England in each of the last five years was:

• No data in 1996–97
• £16,505 in 1997–98
• £63,240 in 1998–99
• £39,075 in 1999–2000
• £28,475 in 2000–01.

For those FPNs not paid within 14 days, offenders may then be prosecuted in a magistrates court up to a value of £2,500. Data for fines issued by a magistrates court show that during the year 1999 the total fine was £28,732, in addition to those listed. We do not hold data prior to, nor subsequent to 1999 for fines issued by magistrates courts for non-payment of fixed penalty notices.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment her Department has (a) made and (b) intends to make of the impact of (i) dredging and (ii) other marine activities on benthic fauna; and if she will make a statement. [65503]

The Department does not regulate dredging but does provide advice to the Department of Transport and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister on the effects of navigation and aggregate dredging respectively on the marine environment, including benthic fauna.With regard to other marine activities, the Department assesses the potential impact on benthic life of proposals which are the subject of applications for licences under the Food and Environment Protection Act 1985 to deposit substances or articles in the sea. This includes proposals to dispose of dredged material and for a wide range of marine construction activities.The Department is funding a programme of research on the effects of aggregate dredging, including the rate of recovery of benthic life after dredging has ceased. In addition the Department's Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science are involved in ongoing research on the impact of fishing activities on the seabed and on the wider marine environment.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on using 0870 telephone numbers for inquiries by the public to the Department and its agencies. [66192]

DEFRA operates helpline numbers for people seeking information or assistance. Some of these services are free of charge but most use local rate call numbers with 0845 prefixes; however one, the Pets Travel Scheme Helpline, uses the prefix 0870.The decisions on which category of number to allocate are taken after assessing the cost effectiveness of each service in terms of meeting the needs of potential users while minimising expenditure.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what staff and resources were allocated in each year since 1999 towards the bovine TB problem in (a) England, (b) Wales, (c) Herefordshire and (d) Worcestershire. [65690]

The information requested on a county basis is not readily available and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Expenditure by the State Veterinary Service (Field) on the bovine TB programme is shown in Table 1. This includes the cost of local and temporary veterinary inspectors but does not include compensation.

Table 1: State Veterinary Service (field) expenditure on the bovine TB programme in England and Wales
£
	Expenditure
	1998–99	1999–2000	2000–01
England	7,757,183	7,574,217	7,955,962
Wales	920,011	1,472,469	1,240,032

The amount of compensation paid for cattle slaughtered to control bovine TB from 1999 to 2001 is shown in Table 2. Compensation figures are only readily available for Great Britain as a whole and are collated on a calendar year basis.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of Central Science Laboratory research relating to badgers feeding in cattle troughs. [66347]

[holding answer 3 July 2002]: The study by Central Science Laboratory and Sussex university showed that badgers frequently visited buildings on two farms in Gloucestershire, to exploit a range of food items. During some visits cattle feed was contaminated with badger faeces and badgers came into close direct contact with housed cattle. Given that there is a substantial body of circumstantial evidence implicating the badger in the transmission of bovine TB to cattle, such situations could potentially carry a high risk of infection. CSL will embark on a wider—scale DEFRA funded study later this year to investigate this phenomenon further.These findings emphasise the need for good biosecurity on farms and the need to minimise access of this kind from badgers.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many cattle were slaughtered after a positive TB test in each year since 1997. [66805]

The number of animals compulsorily slaughtered as TB reactors or as direct contacts is given in the table.

Number of cattle compulsorily slaughtered as TB reactors or contacts in Great Britain
	Number of animals slaughtered
	TB reactors1	Contacts2	Total3
1997	3,213	456	3,669
1998	4,958	926	5,884
19994	5,910	862	6,772
20004	7,031	1,322	8,353
20014	5,347	904	6,251
1Animals which gave a positive result (i.e. reacted) to the tuberculin test and were compulsorily slaughtered.
2Animals which, under the terms of Directive 64/432 as amended, were considered to have been direct contacts exposed to TB and therefore compulsorily slaughtered.
3Animals compulsorily slaughtered because they reacted to the tuberculin test of because they were considered to be direct contacts. Not all the animals will necessarily be confirmed as being infected with Mycobacterium bovis.
4Provisional: data for 1999 onwards will remain provisional until all culture results are available and final data validation carried out.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the cost of buildings insurance to her Department was (a) before and (b) after 11 September 2001. [66936]

Departments are required to comply with the Government's general policy on insurance, which is set out in "Government Accounting", chapter 30, para 30.2.5, which notes that Government do not need to purchase insurance to protect the viability of its business, and should consider insurance only where the value of claims met would exceed the cost of insurance premiums. Commercial insurance of a building is acceptable in cases where (a) insurance is a condition of a lease (b) the lessor will not accept a Government indemnity (c) incurring the total cost of the accommodation in question, including the cost of the insurance, is more cost-effective than other accommodation options ("Government Accounting", para 30.2.1 1 a).Commercial insurance is not usually payable in respect of leasehold properties where the Department is the sole occupier. In the case of leasehold property shared with other tenants, the cost of insurance is not always identified separately by our landlords. Furthermore, premiums are payable at different times of the year and our landlords may not have had to renew cover since 11 September 2001.It is not possible, therefore, to provide a precise assessment of the cost of commercial buildings insurance paid by the Department either before of after 11 September 2001. However, where insurance premiums have been separately charged this year, they have increased by between 3 per cent. and 90 per cent. It is impossible to say what proportion of these increases is due to the events of 11 September 2001.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the buildings owned by her Department and estimate the market value of each of them. [66954]

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 3 July 2002, Official Report, column 339W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the process by which her Department analyses risk from (a) crops and (b) animal feed contaminated with (i) industrial chemicals, (ii) pesticides and (iii) drugs. [66348]

[holding answer 3 July 2002]: The Government undertake an extensive veillance programme for pesticide residues. Priority is given to the surveillance of crops but some animal feed is also tested. A total of some 4,000 samples are analysed each year for a wide range of pesticides generating over 100,000 individual test results. The results for the testing programme are all published in the quarterly reports of the independent Pesticide Residues Committee (PRC) available on its website at www.pesticides.gov.uk/committees/PRC/prc.htmA consumer risk assessment is conducted in relation to all residues which exceed a statutory maximum residue level or are otherwise of potential concern. The methodology used in these risk assessments and their outcomes are described in the PRC's reports.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her Department's policy is on controlling the spread of Japanese Knotweed. [67922]

Japanese Knotweed is a large, vigorous weed. It is a non-native introduction which appears to have no natural enemies in 13ritain. It is an offence under Section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) to plant or otherwise cause Japanese Knotweed to grow in the wild. There is no obligation on landowners to control Japanese Knotweed on their own land.The Department is currently undertaking a fundamental review of policy on invasive non-native species, with other Government Departments, industry and conservation bodies, considering the causes of, and problems arising from, the introduction and spread of non-native species.With regard to relevant research, I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Truro and St. Austell (Matthew Taylor) on 25 June 2002,

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many part-and full-time employees under contract from temping agencies work within her Department; and how much was spent on temporary staff (a) in total and (b) as a percentage of the total staffing budget in her Department and its predecessors for each of the last five years for which figures are available. [66743]

[holding answer 5 July 2002]: The number of employees working under contract from temping agencies is not held centrally by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.The cost of staff employed under contract from temping agencies for each of the last five years is shown in the table. For the years 1997–98 to 2000–01, the amounts shown are for the former MAFF only. Costs relating to the parts of the former Department for Environment, Transport and the Regions that transferred to DEFRA could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for what reason the Forestry Commission is seeking a licence to fell trees on land at the rear of The Gables, West Moors Road, Ferndown. [68000]

[holding answer 8 July 2002]: The Forestry Commission does not apply for felling licences, it issues them. In this particular case, the Commission received an application for a licence to fell trees with an aim to improve the management of the woodland area. The trees were subject to a tree preservation order, so the Commission consulted East Dorset district council who then raised an objection to the proposed felling. The application now therefore falls to be determined by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister under the terms of the tree preservation order. A hearing to consider the application is scheduled to take place on 23 July.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what (a) variations and (b) additions she plans to introduce when the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive is transposed into UK law. [68378]

[holding answer 9 July 2002]: The EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive has now been transposed into law in England by the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Amendment Regulations 2002. These Regulations came into force on 25 June.Our approach in drawing up these regulations was to implement the directive without adding to it or varying from it.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she will take to ensure that poultry farmers in the United Kingdom meet the same standards of animal welfare as other EU nations following the implementation of the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive. [68379]

[holding answer 9 July 2002]: EU member states are responsible for bringing into force the necessary regulations to implement the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive and for communicating the main provisions of the national law to the commission.The EU commission is responsible for monitoring enforcement by member states.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to ensure that egg importers meet the same animal welfare standards as those set within the United Kingdom and across Europe under the forthcoming EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive. 168377]

[holding answer 9 July 200]: Current WTO rules prevent discrimination on the basis of production method and it is illegal under WTO rules to ban egg imports from countries which do not meet the same animal welfare standards as those produced in the EU.However, the EU has been successful in getting non-trade concerns, which include animal welfare, firmly written into the Doha development agenda.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate she has made of the compliance cost to poultry farmers in meeting the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive in respect of (a) capital expenditure and (b) additional annual revenue implications. [68376]

[holding answer 9 July 2002]: A regulatory impact assessment estimating compliance costs to poultry farmers in meeting the EU Welfare of Laying Hens Directive was produced following public consultation. This was laid before the House along with the Statutory Instrument to implement the directive.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) if she will make a statement regarding the Government's objectives for the Wood for Good campaign; [68098](2) what guidance her Department has provided on the Forestry Commission's Wood for Good website

The Wood for Good campaign is sponsored by the Forestry Commission (the Government's Department for forestry throughout Great Britain), the Northern Ireland Forestry Service, the Nordic Timber Council, the UK Sawn Wood Promoters, the Timber Trade Federation and the Forestry and Timber Association. All sponsors are committed to sustainable forest management and they encourage independent certification. The Government support the campaign's objectives, which are to "increase the consumption of wood; change perceptions about wood; encourage its use in interior and exterior design, and building; to tackle issues surrounding the use of wood; and to encourage good practice in the industry". The Forestry Commission's own website, which links to the Wood for Good website, covers issues such as illegal and non-sustainable sources of timber, and on certification.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much funding the United Kingdom Government have allocated to the Forestry Commission in each year since 1997; and how much of this allocation the Forestry Commission has dedicated to the Wood for Good campaign in each of the years the campaign will be running. [68102]

The funds voted to the Forestry Commission each year since 1997 are given in the table.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she intends to amend the current rules on camelid movements; and if she will make a statement. [69537]

Orders made today will simplify the current rules on livestock movements from 31 July. Camelids (including llamas) and zoo animals will no longer require movement licences or be subject to hiosecurity requirements for livestock shows and sales. In addition, sheep dipping, tagging and scanning will no longer require a licence. The rules for multiple pick-ups and multiple drop-offs of livestock will also be simplified.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs ( I ) what action (a) has been taken and (b) is planned by her Department to tackle problems of graffiti; and if she will make a statement; [64733](2) what advertising campaigns

I have been asked to reply.Tackling graffiti requires action by several Government Departments. It is one of the subjects that is being addressed in the cross cutting review on Improving Public Spaces.Writing graffiti is an offence under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Where criminal proceedings are not appropriate it can also be dealt with through a number of measures designed to address anti-social behaviour, including anti-social behaviour orders.Neighbourhood wardens programmes and proposals for community safety officers will also help to reduce yobbish behaviour, such as graffiti writing. Crime and Disorder Partnerships are also working with local communities to tackle graffiti.I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has not undertaken any advertising campaigns that are specific to graffiti.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement about her policy with regard to inshore sand and gravel excavation; and whether environmentally sensitive areas will be protected. [67478]

I have been asked to answer.There is no UK-wide policy on sand extraction.Guidance on sand and gravel extraction from above mean low water in England is set out within Minerals Policy Guidance Notes 6 (MPG6) and 15 (MPG 15). Draft revised national estimates of demand, and indicative regional forecasts of supply, of construction aggregates within England for the period to 2016 will be published for public consultation during the summer. Consideration will be given to review of the policies in MPG6 and MPG 15 during 2003.Proposed Government Policy for sand and gravel dredging from below mean low water in English waters was set out in Draft Marine Minerals Guidance Note 2: Guidance on the Extraction of Sand, Gravel and Other Minerals from the Seabed. This was published for public consultation in February 2001. It is intended that final guidance for English waters will be published within the next few weeks.Policy and guidance on sand extraction in Wales is a matter for the Welsh Assembly Government.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what support her Department is giving to the UN Children's Fund in addressing child rights in its programmes. [67489]

My Department is collaborating with UNICEF to assist in building its capacity to apply human rights approaches to all areas of its programming. The current programme began in early 2000 and runs until the end of 2003 at an overall cost of about £3.78 million. The work includes:

• the development of guidance and training materials;
• human resource development;
• documentation, assessment. monitoring and dissemination of experiences:
• developing indicators for monitoring;
• strengthening regional capacities;
• strengthening the rights-based approach to integrated management of childhood illness.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent analysis the World bank and IMF have sent to her Department of the poverty and social impact of structural reforms supported by their programmes in poor countries; in how many instances the impact has been found to be negative; and what mitigating measures the World bank and IMF have agreed to in order to support in such instances. [67771]

Over recent months the British Government have pressed both the World bank and IMF for a timetable of poverty and social impact analysis (PSIA), setting out the policy reforms that need to be analysed and who will support countries to do the analysis. We welcome the commitment of both institutions to PSIA. We have also supported PSIA pilots in six countries in order to demonstrate how it can be carried out.Of the 35 IMF Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF)-supported programmes considered by the IMF Board between I July 2000 and 30 September 2001, IMF staff papers show that roughly 60 per cent. include some form of PSIA—though only around a third of PRGF-supported programmes had full studies undertaken to assess the effects of specific policies (`formal' PSIA).Figures are not available on the number of instances in which PSIA has shown IMF structural reforms to have been negative. However around two thirds of PRGFsupported programmes over the period included some measures aimed to offset potentially adverse short-term effects of either macroeconomic reforms, structural reforms or exogenous shocks on the poor. There is also evidence of PSIA influencing the design of economic policies. Examples include Uganda, where plans to liberalise the sugar industry were changed; Senegal. where 15–20 per cent. diesel and kerosene subsidies were maintained rather than eliminated; and Cambodia, where large-scale retrenchment of civil servants was delayed until safety nets for retrenchees could be put in place.The World bank have made similar commitments to use PSIA in their Poverty Reduction Support Credits. The British Government see all these documents, given our membership of the World Bank Board. IMF and World bank reviews of PRGFs and Poverty Reduction Strategies respectively contain further information on PSIA. These can be found at www.imf.org and www.wordbank.org.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much aid in real terms the Government have given to (a) Africa and (b) Zimbabwe over the last five years. [68544]

The UK has given the following amounts to Zimbabwe and Africa, in current and constant prices, over the last five financial years.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will list the developing countries which are in receipt of support form her Department to assist in the treatment of prevention from HIV/AIDS. [68325]

My Department is supporting HIV/AIDS-related programmes in:

• Azerbaijan, Republic of
• Bangladesh
• Bolivia
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Burkina Faso
• Burma
• Cambodia
• Caribbean regional
• Central Africa regional
• Central America regional
• Chile
• China
• Colombia
• Cuba
• Ecuador
• Ethiopia
• Gambia, the,
• Ghana
• Guatemala
• Haiti
• Honduras
• India
• Iran
• Kazakhstan, Republic of
• Kenya
• Latin America regional
• Lesotho
• Liberia
• Madagascar
• Mali
• Malawi
• Mexico
• Mongolia

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps she is taking to help bring down the cost of anti-retroviral drugs for those suffering from HIV/AIDS in developing countries. [68324]

The UK's Working Group on Access to Medicines, which I chair, is looking at options for bringing about widespread, sustainable and predictable differential pricing of essential medicines, so that such medicines can be made available to the world's poor at affordable prices. The group's final meeting is on 25 July, after which it will report back to the Prime Minister. Differential pricing could apply to anti-retrovirals, which Gambia the are now on the World Health Organisation's (WHO) essential drug list. We are encouraging key partners pharmaceutical industry, developing countries, donors and international organisations—to play their part in making widespread differential pricing a reality.The Government recognise that affordability is only one of four key factors that WHO has identified as influencing access to medicines. There is also a need for sustainable financing, the rational selection and use of existing drugs, and reliable health and supply systems.On sustainable financing, we have pledged %200 million over five years to the Global Fund to Fight TB, AIDS and Malaria (GFATM). We have also committed over £ 1 billion, since 1997, to strengthening developing countries health systems, building their capacity both to deliver medicines to the poor and to make effective choices about the selection and use of drugs.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures her Department is taking to (a) help with humanitarian aid and(b)educate people in areas with a high risk of AIDS. [67797]

The purpose of DFID humanitarian assistance policy is to save lives and relieve suffering; hasten recovery, and protect and rebuild livelihoods and communities; and reduce risks and vulnerability to future crises. The poor, and those whose vulnerability is increased due to disease, such as HIV/AIDS, are disproportionately affected by disasters and conflict. For example, in southern Africa, a serious drought has led to food shortages, which have stretched the coping capacity of the poorest families, many of whom are already suffering from having one or more of their family with HIV/AIDS. I have recently allocated £45 million to support the most vulnerable people in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Lesotho and Swaziland.My Department supports comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention programmes tailored to local needs and situations. These can include interventions such as condoms, harm reduction, educating youth and safe needle exchange programmes. As part of DFID's HIV/ AIDS strategy, we have identified a focus on working with the most vulnerable groups in the society, which often include women, commercial sex workers, injecting drug users and men who have sex with men. Education leading to behavioural change is a central element of our strategy towards fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It forms the basis for any prevention, treatment and intervention programme.

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many and what proportion of the public service agreements of her Department set out in the document, "Public Services for the Future 1998", have been met; and if she will make a statement. [68709]

My Department's 1999–2002 public service agreement (PSA) set 13 outcome targets of which eight were met, three were not updated due to lack of data, and two were not met. It also set 26 productivity targets, of which five were not met.Full details of progress against the 1999–2002 PSA can be found in DFID's 2002 departmental report.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the Government's policies on the support given to victims of terrorist violence in Northern Ireland. [65803]

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent policy initiatives he has undertaken regarding the treatment of victims of terrorist violence. [65805]

This Government were the first to acknowledge the needs of all the victims of the troubles; this remains a priority. Since 1998 the Government have allocated over £18.25 million to victims' initiatives.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to consolidate public support for the new Police Service of Northern Ireland. [65806]

Together with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Policing Board we are working to bring about a new beginning to policing. The Policing Board, with nationalist participation, has an extensive range of powers to hold the police to account. The 50:50 recruitment campaign has produced a strong cross-community response, with 35 per cent. of applications coming from Catholics. There are around 350 new recruits who have completed or who are now in training.Later this year, District Policing Partnerships will be established. They will have a significant role in increasing local accountability and will provide a forum for the police to work more closely with the community they serve.The Government believe that, in the light of the enormous changes made to date, all parts of the community should support the police.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on commitments given to Sinn Fein on further reform of the police service of Northern Ireland. [65813]

The only commitments we have made on further reform of policing are those set out in the updated implementation plan which was issued to all Northern Ireland political parties and placed in the Library of the House in August last year.A review is currently under way after which the Government will bring forward legislation to reflect further the Patten recommendations. All Northern Ireland political parties have been invited to contribute.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the decommissioning of illegally held weapons in Northern Ireland. [65807]

The Government have consistently called for decommissioning from all paramilitary organisations. We have had two acts of decommissioning from the IRA. That must be the start of a process. It is imperative that we now see reciprocation from loyalists, so that all groups are committed to the normal political process in resolving its problems, and thereby creating a better Northern Ireland.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent progress has been made towards decommissioning. [65824]

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Ealing, Acton and Shepherd's Bush (Mr. Soley).

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the recent meeting of the implementation group; and what the implications are for the future of the devolved institutions. [65808]

At the implementation group on 26 June, and the meetings of the Northern Ireland parties with the Prime Minister and Taoiseach on 4 July, participants recognised the Belfast Agreement had brought great gains; but also that continuing violence and signs of paramilitary activity threaten community confidence. The Government agreed to reflect further on how best to address concerns about the necessary transition from violence to democracy. Before Parliament rises we will set out how we believe the necessary sense of confidence—which underpins the Agreement and the devolved institutions—can be restored.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the proposed Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland. [65809]

The Belfast Agreement tasked the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission with consulting and advising on the scope for defining, in Westminster legislation, rights supplementary to those in the European Convention on Human Rights and to reflect the particular circumstances of Northern Ireland.The Commission published a consultation document, "Making a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland", in September 2001 and is currently considering the responses it has received to that document.The Government will reach no policy conclusions on the proposals until the final advice is received from the Commission. This advice is expected in 2003.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what role he plans for voluntary and community organisations in the proposed community safety partnerships. [65810]

Community Safety Partnerships are made up of the statutory organisations responsible for the delivery of services at a local level. The Partnership should engage with voluntary and community organisations to identify issues of concern at a local level and develop collaborative ways of tackling these issues. The Partnership should determine how best to interface with the voluntary and community sector.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what strategic issues are being considered by the organised crime task force; and if he will make a statement. [65811]

On 23 May, the Secretary of State launched the second annual organised crime task force (OCTF) threat assessment and strategy.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the areas of criminality in which organised crime networks are involved in Northern Ireland. [65814]

On 23 May, the Secretary of State launched the second annual Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) threat assessment and strategy.The OCTF threat assessment shows that organised criminals engage in a wide range of criminal activities in Northern Ireland. These include: trade in illegal drugs; extortion; tobacco and alcohol smuggling and duty evasion; oils fraud; counterfeit goods; money laundering; counterfeit currency; organised vehicle theft; armed robbery and hijacking; abuse of social security payments; illegal livestock trade; evasion of tax and VAT; various financial frauds; identity fraud; motor vehicle licensing fraud; hi-tech crime; illegal immigration; and prostitution.In the year, the OCTF, which I chair, will keep a watching brief on emerging and new organised crime trends. The OCTF strategy also explains how we will measure and report on the overall impact we are having on organised crime in Northern Ireland.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action is being taken to tackle counterfeiting operations by organised crime gangs. [65816]

On 23 May, the Secretary of State launched the second annual Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) threat assessment and strategy.Recognising the adverse impact of the counterfeit goods trade on the Northern Ireland business community and on society more generally, the OCTF has made this crime a priority for concerted multi-agency action by the OCTF partners.There have been some significant operational successes in the last year. The police are doing excellent work every week to tackle the trade in counterfeit goods. At the last OCTF meeting, a strategy prepared by PSNI for tackling the counterfeit goods trade was agreed. The strategy includes raising awareness of the wider harm caused by this illicit trade, understanding better the reasons why people purchase such goods, working with the business community to address those reasons, and considering whether the existing legislation is sufficient.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the level of illegal activities by terrorist organisations in Northern Ireland. [65812]

The table provides details of the level of paramilitary activity from both sides during the last year.

Security situation statistics: 29 June2001–28 June 2002
	By Loyalists	BY Republicans
Number of deaths as a result of the security situation	9	4
Number of shooting incidents	209	115
Number of bombing incidents	271	52
Number of casualties as a result of paramilitary style assaults	81	36
Number of casualties as a result of paramilitary style shootings	110	66

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the levels of terrorist activity in the Province. [65826]

We keep the security situation under constant review. The Secretary of State receives regular advice from the Acting Chief Constable, the GOC and his security advisers. The Acting Chief Constable is on record as saying that he believes that paramilitaries on both sides have been involved in orchestrating the recent street violence in Belfast. This is a worrying development.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his assessment is of the potential for disorder during this summer's marching season. [65815]

The vast majority of parades held this year have passed off peacefully. In relation to a small number of particularly contentious parades which have taken place, some disorder did occur but was quickly contained by the security forces. In the event of public disorder, the security forces have appropriate contingency measures in place to ensure the determination of the Parades Commission is upheld.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent assessment he has made of the confidence of the Unionist community in the Belfast agreement: and if he will make a statement. [65817]

As the Prime Minister said at Hillsborough on 4 July, we recognise there is a lack of confidence in Northern Ireland, especially in the unionist community, about the process of transition away from violence to exclusively peaceful and democratic methods. We shall set out, before Parliament rises, how we believe the necessary confidence can be restored.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the role of the Loyalist Commission. [65818]

It is not for me to define the role of the Loyalist Commission. That is something for members of the Commission itself. I can say that I welcomed the statement issued by the Commission on 14 June 2002 which contained guidelines on reducing the tension and violence experienced by both communities over recent weeks and months. This was a positive step and I would urge everyone to give this initiative their most careful consideration, and act accordingly.I also had a frank and useful exchange of views with members of the Commission on 1 July.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the number of politically related incidents of violence involving weapons, indicating the organisations and individuals responsible, in the last three months. [65819]

It is not possible to answer the question in the format requested. However, the table shows the number of security-related incidents during the last three months.

Security situation statistics 1 April to 28 June 2002
	By Loyalistis	By Republicans
Number of deaths as a result of the security situation	—	1
Number of shooting incidents	42	31
Number of bombing incidents	51	10
Number of casualties as a result of paramilitary-style assaults	24	12
Number of casualties as a result of paramilitary-style shootings	21	12

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on progress made in tackling smuggling in Northern Ireland. [65820]

On 23 May, the Secretary of State launched the second annual Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) threat assessment and strategy.There have been some tremendous operations against smuggling. Since 1 April 2001 over 63 million smuggled cigarettes have been seized by Customs in Northern Ireland. The latest available figures show that deliveries of legal oils products to Northern Ireland have risen by seven per cent. in the last 12 months, the first time in five years.However, the Government believe that oils related fraud remains at an unacceptably high level and is considering options for further initiatives to counter road fuel duty evasion and the associated problems in Northern Ireland.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in tackling smuggling in Northern Ireland. [65825]

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for Preston (Mr. Hendrick), ref. 65820.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress the Police Service of Northern Ireland has made this year in combating the illegal trade in fuel. [65827]

On 23 May, the Secretary of State launched the second annual Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) threat assessment and strategy.Oils related fraud continues to be a major problem, although there is evidence that the position has stabilized and slightly improved. The latest available figures show that deliveries of legal product to Northern Ireland have risen by seven per cent. in the last 12 months, for the first time in five years.There were some major operational successes in the previous year. In December, a major multi-agency cross border operation. in which PSNI played an important role. was undertaken during which 31 premises were searched. Nine people were charged in connection with the evasion of road fuel excise duty and money laundering offences.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what proportion of staff in the Northern Ireland Prison Service have taken part in equality training. [65822]

The Northern Ireland Prison Service has provided 98 per cent. of staff with equality awareness briefings. The remaining 2 per cent. is made up of staff on long-term sick/maternity leave or career breaks and are not available to receive such training.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made with the introduction of electoral identity cards in Northern Ireland. [65823]

The Electoral Office is currently exploring options available for the design and form of the electoral identity card. The Chief Electoral Officer intends to advertise for prospective contractors by early August.A question will be included on this year's annual canvass form asking electors if they require an electoral identity card. This will enable the CEO to target his efforts and resources towards those people who require one. The card will be issued after the publication of the new electoral register on 1 December this year.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the progress made with community safety awareness seminars held in preparation for a draft community strategy. [65828]

Nine awareness seminars took place between October 2001 and April 2002. Seminars were offered to all council areas and 22 participated. A total of 262 individuals attended representing statutory, voluntary and community organisations. The discussion at the seminars provided a valuable contribution to the development of the draft Community Safety Strategy.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in developing a new approach to policing in Northern Ireland. [65829]

Together with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Policing Board, we are laying the foundations of a new beginning to policing. There have been significant structural changes: we have a Policing Board with nationalist participation and broad powers to hold police to account. And there has been an excellent cross-comunity response to recruitment under new 50:50 provisions with 35 per cent. of applications coming from Catholics and around 350 new recruits now in training. There have also been other major changes: policing with the community is now the statutory core function of the Police Service; a major programme of action is under way to focus policing in Northern Ireland on a human rights based approach.Looking ahead, the process of establishing District Policing Partnerships has been launched, which will increase accountability at the local level and bring the police still closer to the community they serve.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what the annual running cost to public funds of Clarence House was in the last five years; and if she will make a statement. [65653]

[holding answer 3 July 2002]: The annual maintenance costs met from the Property Services grant-in-aid for Clarence House over the last five years are as follows:

	£000
1997–98 (cash)	423,769
1998–99 (Cash)	446,376
1999–2000 (Accruals)	386,639
2000–01 (Accruals)	307,098
2001–02 (Accruals)	160,776

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture. Media and Sport how many (a) full-time and (b) part-time employees there were in each of the past seven years in each national museum; and how many of these were over the normal age of retirement. [67178]

The number of full-time and part-time employees at the museums and galleries sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is set out in the table below, other than for the Tate Gallery. National Museum of Science and Industry and National Museums & Gallerieson Merseyside.My right hon and noble Friend the Ministers for the Arts will write to the hon. Member as soon as this information is available, placing copies of her letter in the Libraries of both Houses. Information on the number of staff over the normal retirement age could be made available only at disproportionate cost.

Natural History Museum
Year	Number of full-time staff	Number of part-time staff
2001–02	736	154
2000–01	718	145
1999–00	720	128
1998–99	737	113
1997–98	721	122
1996–97	730	72
1995–96	710	77
Victoria and Albert Museum
2001–02	525	77
2000–01	504	81
1999–00	609	79
1998–99	619	77
1997–98	613	74
1996–97	642	82
1995–96	633	90
British Museum
2001–02	965	90
2000–01	824	86
1999–00	883	88
1998–99	925	88
1997–98	977	72
1996–97	1024	70
1995–96	1022	90
National Maritime Museum
2001–02	318	82
2000–01	336	93
1999–00	347	74
1998–99	295	46
1997–98	294	39
1996–97	297	46
1995–96	299	44
Horniman Museum and Gardens
2001–02	68	28
2000–01	53	18
1999–00	55	19
1998–99	18.45	—
1997–98	182	—
1996–97	177.8	—
1995–96	179.5	—
Imperial War Museum
2001–02	485	63
2000–01	449	55
1999–00	412	54
1998–99	402	54
1997–98	393	54
1996–97	390	54
1995–96	394	54
Geffrve Museum
2001–02	24	15
2000–01	25	17
1999–00	30	10