To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on her policies to deal with abandoned motor vehicles. [85930]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: In October 2001 we published a consultation document on measures to remove abandoned and untaxed vehicles from the streets more quickly and, for the longer term, bring forward changes to vehicle registration and licensing procedures to ensure greater accuracy of DVLA's vehicle record.Regulations reducing the statutory notice periods after which local authorities can remove abandoned vehicles from the highway and the storage periods for unlicensed vehicles came into force on 9 April. Local authorities can now remove those vehicles that they consider merit destruction from the highway after the expiry of a 24 hour notice placed on them.We have supported pilot schemes in the London boroughs of Newham and Lewisham in which the local authority was given DVLA's powers to wheelclamp and remove unlicensed vehicles after 24 hours. Following the success of the Newham pilot on 10 April, we announced that all councils who wished could operate in the same way.In addition, councils have targeted over 6,000 abandoned unlicensed vehicles in multi-agency "Operation Cubits" with over 4,000 vehicles crushed and more operations are planned. To date we estimate that the operations have induced more than 15,700 motorists to relicense their vehicles voluntarily bringing in over £2.3 million in additional revenue.The Government are currently developing proposals for the reform and modernisation of vehicle registration and licensing, to reduce evasion and to bear down on vehicle crime. In response to the recommendations of a report commissioned by the Department for Transport from the Jill Dando Institute of Crime Science, that Department has established a Modernising Vehicle Registration Implementation Board (MVRIB). This includes representatives of motorists' organisations, the motor trade, the police and the insurance industry to advise on and develop those proposals.The 2002 Finance Act contained provisions under which the responsibility for licensing and taxing vehicles will be placed on the registered keeper, who will remain liable for doing so until such time that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has properly been notified of a change of keeper. These proposals will also mean that it is not necessary for a vehicle to be detected on the road for effective enforcement action to take place. The implementation of these new powers is at the heart of MVRIB's agenda.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will set out the timetable for the review of land based English rural development programme agri-environment schemes. [87862]

The agri-environment schemes review consists of three phases. The first phase centred on an initial consultation, held between March and May 2002. This asked for views on the existing schemes and explored what people would like to see in future schemes. There were over 130 responses to this consultation, which were analysed in a report produced in July 2002. This is available on the DEFRA website at: http://defraweb/erdp/schemes/landbased/review/consultnew.htm.The second phase of the review is currently in progress. It consists of two main areas of work: the production of a framework document setting out the future direction of agri-environment schemes, and the development of a pilot scheme to test the proposed entry-level scheme. The framework document was issued for consultation on 16 December 2002, and responses are sought by 28 February 2003. I announced the pilot areas for the entry level scheme on 14 November 2002 and the pilot scheme is due to be launched next spring.The third phase of the review will involve the detailed design and development of the main entry-level scheme and a revised higher-tier scheme, intended to incorporate the best features from both the countryside stewardship and environmentally sensitive areas schemes. It is hoped to complete the review in the summer of 2004, when details of both schemes are sent to the European Commission for approval. The new schemes should open for applications early in 2005.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what progress has been made on the review of access arrangements within English Rural Development Programme agri-environment schemes; and when the results of the review will be published. [87863]

The analysis of replies to the public consultation on this review will be published on the Department's website shortly and a copy placed in the House Library and the conclusions will feed into the wider Agri-environment Schemes Review.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the change in use of CHP by companies covered by climate change agreements; and if she will make a statement. [87880]

There has been no assessment made of the change in use of HFC by companies covered by climate change agreements. It is estimated that total HFC emissions arising from all business will be about 29 per cent. below 1995 levels, the baseline year that the UK has chosen to use for its fluorinated gases, in 2010

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the organisations to which her Department has issued copies of their consultation document, "Living Places, Powers, Rights and Responsibilities". [87222]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: We have sent copies of the consultation to:

• 370 local authorities (355 English and 15 Welsh). 394 local authority planning officers also received copies.
• 97 police authorities and constabularies, including the metropolitan police.
• 17 Government Departments and offices, including the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Home Office, Cabinet Office and No. 10.
• 23 Government related agencies.
• 114 public bodies and non-governmental organisations.
• 168 companies.

In all there were over 2,000 copies of the consultation paper sent out.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when copies of "Living Places, Powers, Rights and Responsibilities" were distributed to local authorities. [87223]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: Copies of the consultation were mailed out to local authorities the week beginning 4 November, following the urban summit which was held on 31 October and 1 November, when the consultation was launched.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how long the principle of relative stability in fisheries management will be continued in its present form. [87630]

The future provisions on relative stability, along with all other elements of the Common Fisheries Policy, are due to be determined by the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers at its current meeting.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make contingency plans to establish a fisheries management committee in the event that no Council of Ministers' agreement is established for European Union fisheries management for 2003 onwards. [87631]

The Government's objective is to secure a meaningful reform of the Common Fisheries Policy at this Council. We shall strive to ensure that an acceptable agreement is reached. Should there be no agreement on a reformed CFP, the current system for Fisheries Management will continue.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) how many voluntary agreements within the refrigeration industry to reduce leakage of hydrofluorocarbons she has made; and what targets exist for future progress; [86494](2) if she will make a statement on the progress in securing voluntary agreements within the refrigeration industry to reduce leakage of hydrofluorocarbons. [86495]

In 1996, the Government concluded a voluntary agreement on the use of HFCs with the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Board (ACRIB) and its member organisations to ensure emissions to atmosphere were minimised. The agreement took the form of a "declaration of intent" in recognition of the fact that the industry is very widely dispersed and that signatories to the agreement could not make a commitment on behalf of those they did not directly represent.The UK climate change programme published in November 2000 sets out the key elements of the Government's policy on HFCs. During 2000, discussions with ACRIB led Government to conclude that a national registration and competence scheme for refrigerant handlers would be a more effective way of limiting and minimising HFC emissions from the refrigeration sector. The industry is developing a scheme which it proposes to put to Government in early 2003. The Government's intention is to make registration and minimum competence mandatory for companies and refrigerant handlers.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to allow the proceeds from landfill tax to go to local authorities. [87491]

Last month's pre-Budget report announced that the Government would consult on a revenue neutral proposal to increase the landfill tax escalator to £3 per tonne in 2005–06 and to increase the rate of tax by at least £3 per tonne in future years, towards a rate of £35 per tonne. The Government will consult with stakeholders on options for the package, including the recycling of revenue, before making its decisions.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she intends to return the P45 certificate belonging to a constituent, Mr. Julian Heath. [87861]

I can confirm that Mr. Julian Heath's P45 has been sent to his home address.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate she has made of the amount of recycled plastic required to meet the target in EC WEEE Directive. [87330]

Figures from a report by the Industry Council for Electronic Equipment Recycling (ICER) show that in 1998 there were about 915,000 tonnes of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) arising, of which approximately 22 per cent. were plastics. These data are currently being updated.The WEEE Directive requires that WEEE is recovered and recycled according to 10 categories, with recovery and recycling targets set at between 50 per cent. and 80 per cent. for each category. The plastics content varies considerably between the categories, however, a significant proportion of the plastics in WEEE will need to be recovered or recycled to meet the requirements of the WEEE Directive.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures she is taking to allocate resources to pockets of rural deprivation in the delivery of services; and what resources she is making available. [87706]

Deprivation in rural areas tends not to be as geographically concentrated as in urban areas and it is less meaningful to think in terms of "pockets". DEFRA is currently working with the Countryside Agency and Office for National Statistics to explore a better way to identify rural deprivation. The Countryside Agency has a social exclusion programme worth almost £3 million for the three years 2002–03 to 2004–05 with which to promote demonstration projects and new research to identify and tackle social exclusion in rural areas.DEFRA and the Countryside Agency are actively promoting the equitable allocation of services in rural areas by helping Government Departments to "rural proof" their policies and programmes. Following the Rural White Paper we allocated over £47 million through the Vital Villages scheme, which in the first instance runs until 2003–04. This is aimed at tackling the problem of dwindling services at the root, by enabling local people to set up their own enterprises.I refer the hon. Member to my earlier reply given to the hon. Member for St. Ives (Andrew George) on 25 November 2002,

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on developments in and involvement of UK representatives in the case of Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh in Pakistan. [84647]

Mr. Sheikh remains in detention. The Pakistani authorities are fully aware of our opposition to the death penalty, both generally and in Mr. Sheikh's case. We will make further representations if appropriate.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs to which bodies his Department makes appointments; how many members there are (a) in total and (b) in each body; and how many of those appointed are (i) businessmen, (ii) businessmen in SMEs and (iii) businessmen in micro-businesses. [87390]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given him by my hon. Friend the Minister of State for the Cabinet Office on 16 December 2002, Official Report, column 607W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many civil servants are employed by his Department; and how much money was spent by his Department in the last 12 months, in each local authority area. [87263]

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given him by my hon. Friend the Minister of State for the Cabinet Office on 16 December 2002, Official Report, column 607W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he plans to hold a referendum on the outcome of the Convention on the Future of Europe. [87931]

No.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he has had with (a) the EU institutions and (b) European partners about the development of a European constitution. [87619]

The Government works closely with members of the EU institutions and our European partners on a range of EU issues in the Convention on the Future of Europe.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if the Government is in favour in principle of a written European constitution. [87620]

The Government supports an EU constitutional treaty that makes clear that the EU is a union of Nation States, and clearly and concisely sets out what the EU does, and how it does it. This would help to deliver a better organised EU, more accessible to EU citizens and better able to deliver real and practical benefits.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with other member states of the Commonwealth regarding the actions of the Zimbabwean Government towards the eviction of white farmers from their land. [83885]

Foreign Office Ministers and officials have regular discussions with their Commonwealth counterparts about the economic, political and humanitarian situation in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe's unsustainable programme of land seizures forms part of these discussions.My noble Friend Baroness Amos, FCO Minister for Africa, had the most recent contact, with the South African, Mozambican and Mauritian Foreign Ministers in Maputo on 7–8 November.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) Challenger II tanks, (b) Warrior, (c) Sakern, (d) FV430, (e) Sabre, (f) Scimitar, (g) Striker, (h) Spartan, (i) Sultan, (j) Samson, (k) Samaritan armoured vehicles, (l) Challenger recovery vehicles, (m) Stormer, (n) Shielder, (o) Fuchs NBC vehicles, (p) AS90, (q) MLRS and (r) M578 were fully operational in each quarter of 2002; what percentage of fleet size this represents in each case; and if he will make a statement. [87922]

I will write to the hon. Member and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the cost of completing the environmental enhancements to the AS90 will remain within the expected budget; when he expects the enhancements to be completed; and whether he has set a deadline for completion. [87042]

The cost of completing environmental enhancements to the AS90 is expected to remain within the budget originally forecast. We expect that the necessary modifications will be completed in time for possible future operations but I am withholding specific details of this timescale under Exemption 1 (Defence, security and international relations) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. To provide such information risks jeopardising our contingency planning and harming operational security.In addition to the AS90s that we are modifying for contingency operations, consideration is being given to modifying further AS90s as part of the normal planning round. A decision on this has yet to be taken.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many expressions of interest he has received from contractors for the environmental enhancements of the AS90; and whether decisions have been made on the award of the contract. [87043]

The contract for the environmental enhancement of AS90 has been sought via a single source prime contract with RO Defence plc, the design authority for AS90. A number of sub-contracts, which are the responsibility of the prime contractor, may also be let. We expect to award the prime contract shortly.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what problems have been experienced with the environmental enhancements to the AS90; what progress has been made; and if he will make a statement. [87044]

No significant problems have been experienced with the environmental enhancements to the AS90, and good progress is being made.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many cruise missiles are held by his Department and if he will make a statement on their readiness. [87918]

I am withholding the information requested in accordance with Exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information (Defence, Security and International Relations).

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many consultants have been recruited to Defence Medical Services through the scheme which offers a £50,000 joining bonus. [84623]

The initiative to offer £50,000 'golden hellos' to consultants in certain key shortage categories and to vocationally trained general medical practitioners, in return for a five year commission, was only announced on 19 November 2002. It is therefore too early for any individuals to have been recruited into the Defence Medical Services.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he has taken to maintain the distinction between the roles of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and the Common European Security and Defence Policy. [87310]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: NATO and the European Security and Defence Policy have clearly-defined and complementary roles. NATO forms the basis of the collective defence of its members and plays an important role in crisis management. ESDP allows the EU to launch military operations where NATO as a whole is not engaged, within the scope of the Petersberg tasks, which are defined in the EU Treaty as

"humanitarian and rescue tasks, peace-keeping tasks and tasks of combat forces in crisis management, including peacemaking."

These roles have been reflected in agreed language in both organisations: for example, the conclusions of the 2000 Nice European Council, and the communiqué from the North Atlantic Council meeting a few days later. On this basis, the EU and NATO have agreed to create a strategic partnership between the two organisations in crisis management.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the value was in his Department's Balance Sheet at 31 March of the equipment used in providing services withdrawn by the fire brigades. [87858]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: This information is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the armed forces' IFF status for preventing friendly fire incidents. [87921]

The United Kingdom has fitted Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) to its front line aircraft, ships and land-based air defence systems. The current generation of IFF equipment (IFF Mk 10) is in the process of being replaced by an updated system, the Mk 12 standard, through the Successor IFF (SIFF) programme. The Mk 12 provides additional security by means of high reliability encrypted interrogation of platforms. IFF is one of a number of methods employed by the armed forces to assist Combat Identification and to minimise the risk of friendly fire incidents. Combat Identification is achieved through a triad of measures: Situational Awareness, Target Identification, and Tactics, Techniques and Procedures. These measures are complementary and IFF plays a part in improving situational awareness and contributes to effective identification.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what drugs were administered to servicemen during the Gulf War; what drugs have been (a) administered to date and (b) medically approved to be administered to servicemen serving in Iraq at a future date; and if he will make a statement. [86246]

[holding answer 10 December 2002]: No decisions have yet been made concerning military action against Iraq.Service personnel are given drugs appropriate to any medical or dental conditions they may experience whether at home or on deployment. In addition, regular and volunteer reserve forces personnel are offered a range of routine vaccinations as part of an established immunisation programme. Personnel deploying to areas with a specific health hazard, and those in special occupational risk groups, such as medical personnel, may be given additional vaccinations. Drugs or vaccinations may also be provided to help protect service personnel against the effects of chemical and biological weapons.Drugs and medicines given to armed forces personnel by medical staff are normally those approved by the Medicines Control Agency (MCA). As is the case in the NHS, drugs and medicines that are not licensed in the United Kingdom by the MCA may be used if prescribed and administered by a doctor.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what maintenance work is being done to HMS Ocean; what the cost of this maintenance is; when the decision was made to do the maintenance work; what the original planned cost was of the work; and if he will make a statement. [87803]

HMS Ocean completed a planned upkeep maintenance period in November at a cost of around £5 million. This package of work was completed satisfactorily. During post upkeep trials however, the Port Main Engine suffered a major defect. The defect resulted from a ship system failure which could not have been anticipated and was not related to the work undertaken during the maintenance period. The cost of this repair work is approximately £450,000.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what risk assessment has been carried out on the side effects of recent inoculations given to armed services personnel posted to the middle east. [82691]

Decisions on vaccinations for service personnel are made on the basis of expert medical advice and take full account of any risk from adverse reactions, balanced against the risks from disease. Routine inoculations given to service personnel deploying to the middle east are licensed products that have been rigorously tested for safety. This includes vaccination against anthrax, which has been offered to personnel deploying to the middle east since May 2001 under the Department's voluntary immunisation programme (VIP). All personnel who elect to receive immunisation against anthrax under the VIP are briefed on, and instructed to report to medical staff, any adverse reactions to the vaccine. No serious adverse reactions have been reported.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the shortfall is of trained pilots in the (a) Royal Navy, (b) Army and (c) Royal Air Force. [87855]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: For the Royal Navy the overall shortfall of trained pilots is currently 51 (9 per cent.). This however, includes staff and administrative posts; the RN's front-line shortfall is less than 5 per cent. For the Army the shortfall is 10 (1.2 per cent.) and in the RAF the current shortfall of junior officer pilots is 109 (7.3 per cent.) of the requirement.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which of his Department's signed PFI contracts have been independently audited since they were signed and started; who conducted the audit; when the audit took place; and if he will make a statement. [87580]

The NAO is the only body to have independently audited a selection of the Department's PFI contracts. The individual project reports can be found on the NAO website at www.nao.gov.ukypublications/vfimsublist/vfm_ppp.htm.

Studies relating to specific defence PFI contracts
Title	Date
Ministry of Defence: Redevelopment of MOD Main Building HC 748, Parliamentary Session 2001–02	18 April 2002
Ministry of Defence: The Joint Services Command and Staff College HC 537, Parliamentary Session 2001–02	7 February 2002
The Private Finance Initiative: The Contract for the Defence Fixed Telecommunications System HC 328, Parliamentary Session 1999–2000	23 March 2000
Ministry of Defence: The Procurement of Non-Combat Vehicles for the Royal Air Force HC 738, Parliamentary Session 1998–99	19 August 1999

The PFI training element of the Apache Helicopter contract was addressed in the following:

Title	Date
Ministry of Defence Building an Air Manoeuvre Capability: The Introduction of the Apache Helicopter HC1246, Parliamentary Session 2001–02	31 October 2002

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what freehold (a) land and (b) buildings have been transferred by his Department to the ownership of QinetiQ, what the latest estimated value is of those assets; and how much (i) land and (ii) buildings has been leased to QinetiQ on leases in excess of 10 years. [87772]

When QinetiQ was vested as a plc on 1 July 2001, the following sites were transferred to QinetiQ: Aberporth Airfield, Alverstoke, Angle, Aquila, Bedford (three sites), Bincleaves, Chertsey, Christchurch, Cobbett Hill, Farnborough (Cody, Pyestock and Pyestock North), Fraser, Funtington North, Haslar (DERA site, not Hospital), Hurn (three sites), Hutton Moor, Malvern, Pershore, Portsdown,

VC10
	Serviceable	1st line	2nd line	3rd line	4thline	Modification
RAF Brize Norton	3	6	1	0	0	1
Op. RESINATE	2	0	0	0	0	0
Munster	1	0	0	0	0	0
Akrotiri	2	0	0	0	0	0
Chateauroux	1	0	0	0	0	0
Falkland Islands	1	0	0	0	0	0
RAF St. Athan	0	0	0	1	0	0

Tristar
	Serviceable	1st line	2nd line	3rd line	4th line	Modification
RAF Brize Norton	1	1	0	0	0	0
Marshalls (Cambridge)	0	0	0	0	0	1
Abu Dhabi	0	0	0	0	1	0

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence where each of the air-to-air refueller aircraft held by his Department is; and if he will make a statement on the level of serviceability of each. [87919]

The following table show the location and serviceability of the aircraft of the Royal Air Force's Air to Air refuelling fleet at 0800 hours on 16 December 2002 and presents no more than a snapshot in time at that particular moment. All aircraft in 2nd, 3rd and 4th line maintenance are undergoing scheduled maintenance. Aircraft that are in 1st and 2nd line maintenance could be brought back into service very quickly if required.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much the United Kingdom invested in the development of TRACER before it was cancelled by the US partners. [86380]

[holding answer 9 December 2002]: The United Kingdom agreed jointly with our US partners not to proceed beyond the assessment phase of the TRACER programme which completed in July 2002. Total UK investment in the programme was £131 million. Arrangements have been put in place to utilise key technologies developed in the TRACER programmes in new programmes such as the future rapid effects system.

To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the Government's policy on holding referendums. [87933]

The Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 established a generic statutory framework for the conduct of referendums held across the UK, or a referendum held in Scotland, Wales, England or Northern Ireland, or in any region in England. Dedicated primary legislation is required for any individual referendum. The Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill, currently before the House, provides for referendums to be held in any of the eight English regions outside of London.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to reply to the letter of 21 October from the right hon. Member for Hitchin and Harpenden requesting a meeting with local groups to discuss plans to expand Luton airport. [88058]

We are considering the request made in the letter from the right hon. Member to meet him and members of Luton and District Association for the Control of Airport Noise (LADACAN), and will respond shortly.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to improve security at small ports and airfields to prevent entry of (a) terrorist suspects and (b) material for use in terrorism; and if he will make a statement. [87504]

In the UK in the immediate aftermath of September 2001 attacks we immediately tightened the security regime for commercial flights by small aircraft. Prior to that, commercial aircraft of less than 15 tonnes (maximum take off weight) were outside the requirements of the National Aviation Security Programme. That exemption has been removed, and aircraft of any weight are now subject to the programme.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to add the A14 widening project to the Targeted Programme of Improvements. [87449]

The Highways Agency is progressing preparatory work on the A14 improvement with a view to recommending to the Secretary of State the most suitable design to be included in our Targeted Programme of Improvements. This work is taking longer than expected but I hope that we would be in a position to announce the results of that work in the new year.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what dedicated phone lines exist for members of the public to complain about noise resulting from aircraft. [88083]

The Department does not have a dedicated phone line for members of the public to complain about aircraft noise. Handling of complaints is a local matter for the airport management. Some airports maintain dedicated complaint lines.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the outcome was of the Transport Council held in Brussels on 5 December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a statement. [87253]

The transport segment of the Transport, Energy and Telecommunications Council was held in Brussels on 5–6 December, my right hon. Friend the Minister of State for Transport attended on the first day, and I attended on the second day, when the Prestige incident was discussed.The Council came to an agreement on the Single European Sky package. The aim of the four regulations making up the package is to improve the efficiency of air traffic management across the EU, thereby reducing air traffic delays. The United Kingdom has been a strong supporter of this package from the outset and I am very pleased to be able to report the successful outcome. Civil/military co-operation is an important aspect of air traffic management, and the member states made a declaration agreeing to co-operate on military aspects.The Commission presented its recent Communication on the consequences for European aviation policy of the recent ECJ rulings on aviation agreements. The Commission called for rapid progress on concluding an EU-US aviation agreement, the Commissioner having written to Ministers, asking them to denounce their existing agreements with the US, which, following the ECJ rulings, the Commission believed were no longer valid. There was general agreement that member states and the Commission needed to discuss the consequences of the ruling urgently, including the question of a Commission mandate for negotiations with the US. COREPER was asked to work on proposals to be put to the Council.The Council agreed on a Regulation providing for new levels of compensation to air passengers in the event of denied boarding, cancellation and delay. A majority of Ministers accepted three levels of compensation: 250 euros for all flights of 1,500 km or less, 400 euros for intra-EU flights of more than 1,500 km and other flights between 1,500–3,500 km, and 600 euros for all other flights. These compensation levels will be reviewed four years after the Regulation comes into effect. The UK voted against the Regulation because in the absence of a link to the ticket price it could damage the interests of consumers of "no-frills" air services. During the debate, the Minister of State had voiced concern at the impact on the services of no-frills carriers, pointing out that the minimum compensation level was almost four times the average cost of a no-frills ticket. Following a suggestion from some member states that the scope of the Regulation be extended to certain passengers returning to the EU from non-Community airports, it was agreed that the Commission would publish a report on this issue.Conclusions were agreed setting out the basis for the continuation of the Galileo satellite navigation project, including the tendering procedure, and addressing the importance of relations with third countries. A final decision on whether to include a Public Regulated Service (PRS) in the project is to be taken before the end-of 2003. The UK and the Netherlands entered a Minutes Statement stressing that they could not accept any PRS that would overlay the US GPS M-Code.The Council debated the second package of rail measures. The presidency noted the progress that had been made on this package of five proposals, designed to progress the development of more harmonised technical standards for interoperability, harmonise safety regulation processes, to open up access to the market for all rail freight services, and to establish a European Rail Agency. In discussion of the main outstanding issues on the safety and interoperability proposals there was a consensus for member states to be able to maintain safety levels above any harmonised minimum standard, and general support for extending the scope of the interoperability requirements. The presidency concluded that work should continue on the package. Greece made clear that it hoped to reach agreement during its presidency.There was a debate on action to be taken following the Prestige accident. I, in common with other Ministers and the Commission, generally welcomed the presidency's approach in the Conclusions put to the Council. I joined others in arguing for better quality port state control inspections, and expressed the UK view that in general there should be co-ordinated EU actions leading to improvements in the international regulatory framework. The Conclusions reaffirmed the support of member states for the establishment of a supplementary compensation fund, developed in the IMO, to the benefit of the victims of oil pollution. This would enhance the existing international fund. The UK's concern was that the EU should not commit itself at this stage to its own fund in the event of failure of negotiations in the IMO, for fear of prejudicing those negotiations, and we secured an amendment to this effect. The Conclusions also include commitments to a faster phasing out of single-hulled tankers and restrictions on those carrying very heavy oil. There is to be an analysis of available double-hull tanker capacity. Also included are: better implementation of port state control obligations, and possible measures by member states to prohibit within 200 miles of their coasts traffic carrying dangerous and polluting goods.The Council agreed on a Regulation establishing the Marco Polo programme to grant community financial aid to projects designed to achieve the shift of freight transport from road to other modes. The programme will have a total budget of 75 million euros.Political agreement was reached on a Regulation to prohibit the use of environmentally damaging antifouling paints on ships, in accordance with the latest IMO agreements.Conclusions were agreed on the integration of environment and sustainable development into transport policy, a continuation of the process begun at the Cardiff European Council in 1998.The Council debated the issue of Alpine transit and the ecopoint system for transit through Austria. Agreement could not be reached, and the presidency submitted the dossier to the General Affairs and External Relations Council.During the Council, Ministers signed the Agreement on Maritime Transport between the European Community and its member states, and the People's Republic of China.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he will to announce whether Cambridgeshire County Council has been successful in its bid for a guided bus along the Cambridge-Huntingdon route. [88150]

My Department is still appraising the proposals. As this would be a large and expensive scheme, we have asked independent external consultants to undertake a technical audit of the information received, in order to help us form a view on whether the proposal passes the established tests that determine eligibility for government funding. We will continue to work with the promoters to resolve outstanding issues as soon as possible, and would hope to be able to give them a provisional view of the scheme in advance of the next local transport investment settlement. This would be without prejudice to any statutory approvals that may be required.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he will make of the South and West Yorkshire multi-modal study into motorway congestion; if he will set up further studies with a broader focus; and if he will bring forward the further investment into rail and tram routes suggested in the study. [87432]

We are currently considering the study recommendations together with the comments received from the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly and others. An announcement giving our response to the study recommendations and on the way forward will be made in spring 2003.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many applications there have been for the Rail Passenger Partnership in rural areas since its launch; how many have been accepted; and what the average amount spent on each bid has been to date. [88144]

The Rail Passenger Partnership (RPP) scheme was launched in 1999 with a budget of £105 million over three years. In December 2001 the Strategic Rail Authority re-launched RPP with a budget of £400 million until 2010–11.It is not possible to give a precise figure for the amount spent exclusively in rural areas, as many of the schemes for which funding has been awarded by the SRA are of benefit to rural and non-rural areas. However, since the launch of the Rail Passenger Partnership scheme, applications for 68 schemes containing a rural element have been received. Of these, 36 schemes have been approved for funding. There are a further 13 schemes with a rural element where the Strategic Rail Authority are awaiting formal bids. From the total of those approved bids containing a rural element, the average RPP funding awarded is around £100,000.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of changes in the average level of insurance paid per annum since 1995 within the railway industry related to cover for (a) rolling stock, (b) stations, (c) personnel, (d) passengers and (e) other infrastructure. [87628]

In February 2001, the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) took over responsibility for approving all licensed operators) third party insurance arrangements from the Rail Regulator. Neither the SRA nor the Regulator holds information on premiums paid.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what percentage of passengers who flew from (a) Edinburgh, (b) Glasgow and (c) Prestwick airports travelled to the airport by public transport in each year since 1995. [88082]

The available information is as follows.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to his answer of 3 December 2002, Official Report, column 673, what resources the Secretary of State representative will have at his disposal; where he is based and if the Secretary of State has powers to intervene to direct him to act. [87521]

(1) The following major resources are available to SOSREP:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to his answer of 10 December 2002, Official Report, column 214W, on the Stingray system, how the revenue generated from enforcement against VED evaders caught by the Stingray systems compared with the target set in October 2001; and if he will make a statement. [88149]

No separate target was set for the Stingray AN PR camera systems in October 2001. The Stingray system was intended to, and did, contribute towards the total VED enforcement target of 720,000 successful cases for the year 2001–02. The actual figure achieved was 799,800 cases.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to improve rail services between Manchester and Blackpool serving parts of Chorley borough area; and what plans he has to increase the number of trains stopping at Euxton Balshaw lane station. [87516]

The SRA is combining the local and regional services currently operated by Arriva Trains Northern and First North Western—including those between Manchester and Blackpool—to form a new 'northern' franchise, in line with its new franchising policy announced on 6 November. The SRA expects the franchise to be operational in summer 2004. There are no specific plans to increase the number of trains stopping at Euxton Balshaw lane station at present, but operators can seek to increase service levels at their own discretion.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many successful cases against evasion of vehicle excise duty there were between October 2001 and October 2002. [88084]

In the 13 months between October 2001 and October 2002 DVLA took successful action against 870,383 offenders.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the level of fuel taxation of land vehicles used solely within the precincts of UK airports. [88081]

Vehicles operating within the confines of an airport are usually unlicensed vehicles not used on public roads. As such, they are entitled to use rebated gas oil (red diesel) as fuel. Rebated gas oil carries a duty rate of 3.13p per litre.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to his answer of 10 December 2002, Official Report, column 257W, on bioethanol fuel, what research he has published on the effect the level of duty on bioethanol fuel has had on (a) the British sugar industry, (b) British farmers and (c) the manufacturing sector. [87794]

We have not published any research on this subject.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to his answer of 10 December 2002, Official Report, column 257W, on business support, when he expects the RDA pilots to be completed; and when a decision about the general introduction of RDA-led management and co-ordination of business support will be made. [87785]

Pilots of RDA-led management and coordination of regional business support are currently in the developmental stage. The Small Business Service (SBS) and HM Treasury are continuing to work closely with RDAs to work up their proposals. An evaluation framework is being designed to capture the key learning points from the pilots. More details on timings will be announced in due course.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with manufacturers about the effect of the climate change levy on UK competitiveness. [87672]

As part of the normal process of contact with business, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Treasury ministerial team have met a variety of businesses and business organisations and have heard a range of representations. As the Chancellor of the Exchequer said in his answer of 11 February, Official Report, columns 114–15, in line with previous Administrations, it is not this Government's practice to provide details of the meetings they routinely have with a wide range of organisations.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will deposit in the Library the UK's 2002 convergence programme, arising from Article 7 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of the Stability and Growth Pact, before 19 December; and if he will make a statement. [87944]

The UK's 2002 convergence programme will be made available to both Houses of Parliament once it is published.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the government policy on rulings in writing given by Customs and Excise Officers, as set out on 21 July 1978, Official Report, column 426, applies to oral (a) VAT advice obtained by telephone from the Department's National Advice Service and (b) VAT advice obtained from a Customs officer by e-mail; and if he will make a statement. [87625]

The policy set out on 21 July 1978, Official Report, columns 426–27, has been expressed in a published concession which provides that:

If a Customs and Excise officer, with the full facts before him has given a clear and unequivocal ruling on VAT in writing or, knowing the full facts, has misled a registered person to his detriment, any assessment of VAT due will be based on the correct ruling from the date the error was brought to the registered person's attention.

The concession applies, in these terms, to VAT rulings given over the telephone by Customs, including their National Advice Service, and to VAT rulings given by officers in writing and communicated by letter, fax or e-mail.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to (a) reduce the percentage of death duty paid, and (b) raise the qualifying value of exemption from death duty. [87373]

The Chancellor considers all taxes as part of his annual Budget judgment.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on Franco-German plans for European tax harmonisation. [87015]

The Government's view is that fair tax competition is the way forward, not proposals for tax harmonisation. The Government will not support any action at European level that would threaten jobs and investment or damage the competitive position of British business.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made to secure the US$1 billion for the HIPC initiative that is not financed; and if he will make a statement. [87571]

The UK government have been at the forefront of the international debate on debt relief issues, and continues to press for the rapid and full implementation of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative.At the G7 Summit in Kananaskis in June 2002, the UK helped secure agreement for the G7 to fund their share of the financing shortfall in the enhanced HIPC initiative, recognising that it would be up to US$1 billion.At the annual meetings of the World bank and IMF in September the UK took a strong lead by pledging its share of the funds needed in advance. The development committee communiqué welcomed the pledges of support from the UK and others, and called on other countries to make firm pledges as a matter of urgency.The UK and 16 other donors have now agreed pledges totalling $850 million to the HIPC trust fund. EU member states have also called on the European Commission to make a contribution through the European Development Fund.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will seek further independent reviews of IMF growth projections for HIPC countries; and if he will make a statement. [87573]

At the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on children in May 2002, the Chancellor called for greater caution over the forecasts used to calculate debt sustainability for HIPCs. And G7 leaders agreed, at their meeting in June, that the IMF and World bank should ensure that forecasts of debt sustainability are made on the basis of prudent and cautious assumptions about growth and exports. Therefore, the UK is pleased to note that in preparation for the annual meetings of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and Development Committee in September 2002, IMF and World bank staff committed to develop alternative macroeconomic scenarios, including a policy-based "optimistic" and a "conservative" scenario that would reflect country's vulnerabilities and the uncertainties of external environment. IMF and World bank staff are also expected to base their own growth projections on a thorough analysis of the likely sources of growth and to present such analyses explicitly in discussions with authorities, as well as in staff documents.The Independent Evaluations Office (TEO) of the IMF has been discussing its work programme for 2003, proposing an evaluation of the poverty reductions strategy papers and the poverty reduction and growth facility approach. The UK has contributed to that discussion to ensure the IE0 can conduct a thorough assessment.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make it his policy to release the concluding statement of the International Monetary Fund Article IV consultations by means of a written ministerial statement; and if he will make a statement. [87626]

The IMF's concluding statement at the end of the 2002 Article IV consultations was published by the IMF on 9 December. Copies of the statement were also placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what further proposals he has to increase the tax incentives to motorists for mileage on business use to change to less polluting vehicles. [87325]

The new company car tax system linking the charge on the benefit of a company car to the level of its carbon dioxide emissions came into effect in April this year.The Inland Revenue is undertaking an extensive exercise to evaluate the effects of the reforms.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has made an assessment of the implications of changes in public liability insurance for constituency offices and venues where parliamentary advice surgeries are held; and if he will make a statement. [86207]

I have been asked to reply.Parliament provides combined employers and public liability insurance for its Members. We are not aware of any changes to the scope of the public liability insurance.We have been advised that when we renew our policy at the end of March 2003, the ceiling for indemnity in respect of terrorist acts under the employers' liability provision will be reduced from £10 million to £5 million. We will inform Members of the terms of the new policy.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what financial institutions based in the City of London have used offshore financial arrangements in the last three years as a smeans of avoiding liability for employers national insurance; and if he will make a statement; [R] [87710](2) what steps he intends to take to remove the opportunity for financial institutions based in the City of London to avoid liability for national insurance by paying their employees who work in the UK under an offshore arrangement; [R] [87711](3) what recent reports he has received relating to tax avoidance schemes which involve the use of offshore arrangements in the payment of employees as a vehicle for avoiding

The Government are committed to closing loopholes in the tax and NICs systems, which allow some people to avoid paying their fair share, increasing the burden on others. In his pre-Budget report the Chancellor announced that he was introducing measures to counter the avoidance of tax and national insurance contributions through the use of employees benefit trusts. I cannot comment on the activities of individual companies.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to his answer of 10 December 2002, Official Report, column 266W, on training and management courses, when he will publish the consultation document described. [87791]

The Government are in discussion with a number of high street banks on the detail of their proposal and will consult small businesses in due course.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many families in each of the wards in the Wansbeck constituency benefit from receipt of the working families tax credit. [88158]

I understand from the Office for National Statistics that they expect to publish these figures within the next few weeks as part of neighbourhood statistics.

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has to reform non-departmental public bodies at the regional level. [86325]

I have no plans for major reforms to the way that non-departmental public bodies operate at a regional level. However, the White Paper 'Your Region, Your Choice' sets out the Government's proposals to strengthen the existing regional institutions, including Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), who now enjoy increased funding and flexibility in the way that their resources can be used. In the future, in those regions where voters choose in a referendum to have an elected assembly, the RDA will be accountable to the elected assembly in the region, which will appoint the Chair and Board members and publish the regional economic strategy. Elected regional assemblies will also have a significant influence over other bodies such as the local Learning and Skills Councils, Small Business Service, Strategic Rail Authority, Environment Agency and cultural bodies, through making appointments, being consulted on strategies and co-ordinating activity.

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the employment costs are, including benefits, of (a) ministers representing the Regulatory Impact Unit and (b) special advisers and their supporting staff retained by the Regulatory Impact Unit. [87607]

No special advisers are retained by the Regulatory Impact Unit (R IU). The one part-time special adviser and two Ministers employed in the Cabinet Office will spend some of their time on RI U-related issues but the cost of this time is not separately identifiable from the time spent by them on other issues.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with her European counterparts regarding the Agency Workers Directive; whether she has sought to make amendments to the Directive as it stands; and if she will make a statement. [87663]

As I said in the debate in European Standing Committee C on 10 July 2002, the Government would like to see further flexibilities introduced to the proposal. I have been discussing and will continue to discuss this proposal with Ministers in other member states, MEPs and Commissioner Diamantopoulou. I shall be producing an Explanatory Memorandum and Regulatory Impact Assessment on the revised proposal.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry pursuant to her answer of 5 December, Official Report, column 1039, if she will list the business leaders to whom she spoke between 27 November and 5 December, stating in each case whether the agreement to which she refers was volunteered. [87515]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: As the Official Report, makes clear, I was referring to a wide range of discussions with business leaders since Budget 2002, including several large meetings.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what response she has received from major retailers to her appeal not to open on Christmas Day; and what action she plans for future years as a result of that response. [87987]

Consultation of major retailers earlier in the year indicated that the majority did not plan to open on Christmas Day 2002 or in future years.The need for any further action will be considered in the light of the practice of retailers at Christmas this year.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry under what legislation the Post Office is required to deliver election addresses free of charge at general elections; what the cost of delivery was at the last general election (a) in each constituency and (b) in total; and by whom those costs are met. [87342]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: A candidate's right to send election address post free is provided for in Section 91 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 as amended by paragraph 17 of Schedule 8 to the Postal Services Act 2000. Section 91 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 entitles a candidate at a parliamentary election (subject to such reasonable terms and conditions as the universal service provider may specify) to send free of any charge certain specified postal communications to each elector. Cost is a matter that falls within the day-to-day responsibility of Royal Mail Group plc and I have therefore asked the Chairman to reply direct to the hon. Member.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what recent assessment she has made of the ability of small businesses to secure Employers' Liability Insurance; [87405]

As businesses enter liquidation proceedings for a number of reasons, it is not possible to single out one issue, such as difficulty in obtaining Employers Liability Insurance as the sole cause of such proceedings.However, my Department is very concerned by reports of significant rises in insurance costs, particularly for small businesses, and is aware of the difficulties that this has posed for some firms.As announced in the Chancellor's pre-Budget report in November, the Government are conducting a review to assess the scale and nature of difficulties with the Employer's Liability Insurance system. The Department for Work and Pensions is leading the review and my Department will play a full and active role to represent the needs of business. Further details about the review are available at www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/2002/mdex.htm.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the volume of trade between the UK and Mozambique was in the last year for which figures are available; what recent estimate she has made of UK investment in Mozambique; and what steps she has taken to encourage trade between Mozambique and the rest of the Commonwealth. [87062]

According to figures published by HM Customs and Excise, UK imports of goods from Mozambique in 2001 were valued at £7.5 million while UK exports were worth £12.6 million. In the nine months to September 2002 UK imports were worth £1.5 million while exports were £10.9 million. The figures do not take account of trade between Mozambique and British companies located in South Africa, for which statistics are not available.Information on UK investment in Mozambique is not available due to commercial confidentiality.Trade Partners UK has a small but busy section in Mozambique, assisting UK companies in the market and those wishing to access it for the first time. In addition TPUK has recently funded a high level delegation to the UK to highlight investment opportunities in a hydro-power project, Mpanda Ncua, and has given support to a trade mission from the UK planned for February 2003. It is not HMG's role to actively promote business between Mozambique and other Commonwealth countries. However, TPUK supported the Commonwealth Business Council in its efforts to run an investment promotion seminar jointly with the Mozambique Government in February 2002.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry who will oversee the second card option for post office payment after the changes in 2003. [86557]

This is a matter which falls within the day-to-day responsibility of Post Office Ltd. I have therefore asked the chief executive to reply direct to the hon. Member.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment has been made of the impact on productivity of the growth of the service sector relative to the manufacturing sector. [87838]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: Concern is sometimes expressed that the growth of the service sector may slow overall productivity growth because measured productivity growth is lower in the service sector than in the rest of the economy. However this conclusion, which emerged in academic research in the 1960s, has been called into question by later research. Moreover a number of studies show that the UK service sector has considerable potential to catch up with best-practice productivity levels elsewhere. The Government are keen to encourage productivity growth and narrow the productivity gap in all sectors of the economy.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the costs of establishing a target of (a) 25 per cent. and (b) 30 per cent. of the UK's electricity to come from renewable sources by 2020. [87882]

Prospects for renewable energy, including the question of possible targets beyond the 10 per cent. target for 2010, will be addressed in the Energy White Paper which we expect to publish in the new year.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry pursuant to her answer of 2 December 2002, Official Report, column 520W, on the Social Chapter, what estimates her Department has made of (a) the overall cost to date and (b) the annual cost hereafter to businesses in the UK of implementing the five directives transposed from the Social Chapter. [87674]

Estimates of the overall cost to businesses in the UK of implementing regulations transposing the five Social Chapter directives listed as follows were published in Regulatory Impact Assessments which are available from the Libraries of the House.The estimated total annual recurring implementation cost is as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what criteria have been used to exclude (a) on grid solar PV, (b) off grid solar PV and (c) hybrid systems including solar PV, from the proposed new community and household renewable energy grant scheme to be launched in January 2003. [87715]

The Performance and Innovation Unit's 'Renewable Energy in the UK—Building for the Future' report recommended that up to £10 million of support be provided as capital grants specifically for renewable energy schemes that engage local communities or individual households.The DTI has since undertaken a broad consultation exercise to inform the positioning, design and workings of this scheme. Through the consultation the DTI has revisited the initial recommendations of the PIU. An initial scoping exercise identified schemes, which had potential overlap with the proposed Community and Household Scheme (CHS), and concluded that such a scheme would be beneficial for the advancement of renewables in the UK.Although the PIU recommended that no restrictions be placed on technology, the DTI has sought to identify which technologies would enhance the public's understanding of renewables. The scheme has also been designed so that it would not duplicate work under way through other Government or Industry initiatives. Although solar PV has a significant contribution to make to enhancing the public's understanding of renewables, it is already supported by the first phase of the PV Major Demonstration Programme (MDP) which has a budget of £20 million. The programme has already supported PV installations by homeowners and local groups. Technologies such as solar water heating, small wind and micro hydro can also make a positive contribution to the public's understanding of renewables. These technologies, in contrast to solar PV, receive little or no Government support.The scheme also aims to tackle some of the other barriers to uptake such as installer accreditation. Again installer accreditation for solar PV occurs under the MDP and so any such work in the Community and Household would be redundant.On off grid applications, the DTI are currently looking at whether to expand the MDP to include off grid PV systems. On hybrid systems, customers will be able to apply to the CHS for the non solar PV component and to the MDP for the solar PV component of the hybrid system.The technologies supported by the CHS will be reviewed throughout the lifetime of the scheme and altered if necessary.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many refused claims for compensation for former Icelandic trawlermen based in the city of Aberdeen are awaiting (a) first appeal and (b) a decision by the independent adjudicator. [87638]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: The information is as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many refused claims for compensation for former Icelandic trawlermen based in the City of Aberdeen have been overturned (a) at first appeal and (b) by the independent adjudicator. [87639]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: The information is as follows:

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many claims under the Former Icelandic Water Trawlermen Compensation Scheme are still to be processed; how many appeals under the scheme are awaiting a decision; and what the average time to process an appeal has been. [87664]

There are no claims remaining that have not been considered on at least one occasion. There are 180 currently awaiting further information prior to an initial decision of the Watford office. There are 193 queries regarding the initial decision of the Watford office currently under consideration by the responsible DTI official. Over 1,600 other queries have already been responded to by him. There are 43 formal appeals currently with the independent adjudicator for consideration. The average time taken to process a formal appeal has been 57 days.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps were taken by her Department to publicise the Former Icelandic Water Trawlermen Compensation Scheme; how many representations her Department has received from fishermen enquiring about compensation under the scheme since the expiry date; and if she will extend the application process beyond that date. [87665]

The scheme was publicised in the local press and other relevant publications, with port area MPs and with the British Fishermen's Association, and on the DTI website. While the scheme was in operation, DTI officials also made numerous visits to the main port areas to meet former trawlermen and/or their representatives. Further publicity was arranged in relevant publications and with port area representatives in advance of the 1 October 2002 closure date for new claims. Since that date, DTI officials have received fewer than 10 new inquiries from individuals who might have wished to claim compensation. The scheme rules made clear the closure date was final.

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Former Icelandic Water Trawlermen Compensation Scheme, affidavits from independent witnesses testifying that a certain ship has been to Icelandic waters during the relevant period will be accepted as proof of that ship's validity and will trigger compensation for those having served on it; and if she will make a statement. [87666]

At the outset of the scheme, officials—in conjunction with local trawlermen and their representatives—compiled a list of Icelandic-water vessels based on independent contemporary documentary evidence. More vessels have been added to this list as further such evidence has come to light during the period of operation of the Scheme. There are now over 700 vessels on the list. We continue to believe that independent contemporary documentary evidence provides the best basis for assessing the status of particular vessels.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will include traffic wardens in those eligible for the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal. [87184]

No. The medal is being issued to the living holders of the Victoria Cross and the George Cross, to serving members of the armed forces arid the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, and to the '999' emergency services. Traffic wardens do not fall within any of these eligible groups.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will list the public organisations that make grant funding available for community developments, and the funds available last year for them to disburse. [87413]

The Department's annual report (May 2002, Cm 5423) gives details of all the public bodies sponsored by the Department and of any grant funding that they disburse.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what further action she has taken to increase the number of drug tests on competitors at elite sporting events in the UK; and if she will make a statement. [87887]

This Government is firmly committed to combating doping in sport. The anti-doping programme in the UK is delivered through the national anti-doping organisation, UK Sport, in conjunction with sports governing bodies. As a result of the 2002 Spending Review this Government has allocated additional funds to UK Sport specifically to increase the number of public interest tests carried out under the anti-doping programme and to meet the additional costs of new blood tests. The funding, which amounts to £1.5 million in 2004–05 and £3.2 million in 2005–06, will ensure the continued quality and comprehensiveness of UK Sport's anti-doping programme.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much revenue has been collected from lottery sales in Morecambe and Lunesdale in the last 12 months. [87506]

Information about National Lottery ticket sales is not collected by constituency. But the National Lottery Commission is able to provide information about sales broken down by post code area. In October this year in response to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Morley and Rothwell (Mr. Challen) on 22 October 2002, Official Report, columns 182–83W, I placed in the House Libraries a table provided by Camelot plc listing sales by postcode area since the Lottery's launch.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what the total of uncommitted funds is from New Opportunities Fund Rounds 1 and 2; and if she will make a statement. [87651]

The New Opportunities Fund had £1.5 billion available for its round 1 and 2 programmes which are designed to improve the quality of life for people and communities, address disadvantage and encourage community participation.The New Opportunities Fund has committed 93.11 per cent. of Round 1 and 2 funds. There is £97.5 million yet to commit.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment of the noise pollution caused by (a) amplified music and (b) television sets was made by her Department when considering licensing reform. [87408]

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: We consulted local authorities and local residents groups, as well as representatives of the music industry, following the publication of our proposals for reform of the licensing laws, and considered views on public nuisance and the impact of various forms of entertainment on the community. The comments that were received during the initial review and in response to the publication of the White Paper led to our making the prevention of public nuisance one of the four primary licensing objectives of the Bill.During the consultation, no organisation or individual commented on the issue of noise from television sets. Subsequently, we have considered whether the live broadcast of television in public venues should be brought within the proposed licensing regime and concluded that this is not necessary.

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions she has had with the Treasury about tax relief for those charitable organisations affected by the provisions of the Licensing Bill, with regard to the requirement for applying and paying for licences for fundraising events. [87450]

This Department has not had discussions with the Treasury with regard to this issue.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the estimated cost of administration was in relation to the introduction of charging and means testing for housing support services in Northern Ireland. [87336]

In the interests of targeting resources to where the need is greatest I have decided that those who can afford to pay for their housing support services should continue to do so. However it is important that the administration costs of operating such an arrangement are kept to a minimum. Rather than spending around £250,000 to develop and administer a specific supporting people means test, I have decided that eligibility for housing benefit or any other means tested benefit, should be the automatic passport to free housing support services. This will be easy to operate with little additional costs in terms of administration.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what agreement he has reached with the Irish Government about the operation of the North-South Implementation Bodies during the period of suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly; and if he will place a copy of the agreement in the Library. [85884]

In an exchange of notes on 19 November the British and Irish Governments agreed a mechanism so that during the period of temporary suspension of the Assembly, decisions on policies and actions relating to the Implementation Bodies, Tourism Ireland (a publicly owned company established as an area of co-operation by NSMC) or their respective functions could be taken. The agreement was made to ensure the continuation during suspension of the necessary public functions performed by the Implementation Bodies. The agreement, which came into force on 3 December, also provided that no new functions would be conferred on the Implementation Bodies during suspension. The exchange of notes will be laid before both Houses of Parliament.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much was spent in each of the last three years in Northern Ireland in providing free personal care for those living in sheltered accommodation or living in their own homes. [87331]

Information on the cost of providing free personal care for those living in sheltered accommodation or living in their own homes is not available. The provision of personal care includes services such as district nursing, home help, occupational and physiotherapy and applies to a number of programmes of care. Information at the level required could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the funding arrangements for partnerships between statutory bodies and the voluntary sector in Northern Ireland. [87057]

Voluntary and community sector involvement in the design and delivery of public services is a key aspect of the Modernising Government agenda.There are numerous and diverse partnerships at local level, funded through grant aid and service level management, between the voluntary sector and statutory bodies such as district councils and health and social services trusts. Of particular importance are Local Strategy Partnerships, supported under Peace II and now working in every district council area in Northern Ireland.Further detail on the wide ranging sources of funding for partnerships between government and the voluntary and community sector can be provided only at disproportionate costs.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what initiatives in and between Northern Ireland Government Departments are in place to encourage and facilitate the voluntary sector in delivery of services. [87058]

Government strategy for support of the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland is set out in "Partners for Change", a consultation document launched in June 2001. The strategy aims to add value to Government in Northern Ireland through a partnership approach with the voluntary and community sector, enabling the sector's contribution to service delivery, policy comment and achievement of government objectives.I have endorsed the final draft of partners for change and arrangements for publishing the document are currently in place. The document will be available early in 2003 and will be posted on the Department for Social Development's website.An allocation of £6 million from executive programme funds was announced on 7 October 2002 to maintain important services delivered by the voluntary and community sector, which otherwise might be lost due to funding difficulties. Applications for funding under this initiative have now closed and Departments aim to make recommendations to Ministers by the end of January 2003.Longer-term sustainability issues will be considered by a Task Force on Resourcing the Voluntary and Community Sector. This Task Force will consider the further diversification of funding sources for the sector and is due to report its conclusions by April 2004.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to his answer of 2 December 2002, Official Report, column 551W, on breakfast clubs, if he will make it the Government's policy to fund breakfast clubs for all schools via mainstream funding. [87575]

My previous answer of 2 December explained that many schools already offer breakfast clubs as part of their study support or child care provision."Investment for Reform" spelt out our intention that, by 2006, all schools should be providing study support, in breakfast clubs or otherwise. Funding will continue to be made available to local education authorities and schools to enable them to offer a wide range of study support activities, and we will be announcing our detailed plans in due course. It will be for schools and authorities to choose whether to run breakfast clubs in particular as part of their study support, as they are best placed to determine local needs and viability.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what action he is taking to ensure sustainability of breakfast clubs and out-of-school activities funded by the New Opportunities Fund when this funding finishes. [87617]

We are committed to promoting study support in schools, including breakfast clubs. In "Investment for Reform", we spelt out our aim for all schools to be providing study support by 2006, in breakfast clubs or other activities. We hope that participating schools will also be able to use the extended schools programme, and child care initiatives, to offer an increased range of provision including breakfast clubs.Funding will continue to be available for study support activity after New Opportunities Fund grants finish. We will be announcing in due course our detailed funding plans for study support over the next three years. It will of course remain for schools and local education authorities to decide precisely what provision to offer with the resources at their disposal.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many universities and colleges are facing deficits in their budgets in the current financial year; and what estimate he has made of the cost to universities of remedying current budget deficiencies over the next (a) three years and (b) seven years. [87309]

[holding answer 17 December 2002]: In 2000–01, there were 48 higher education institutions in England with budget deficits out of a total of 130. Universities receive funding from a variety of sources, both private and public and set out their accounts in their annual reports. The Higher Education Funding Council for England works with institutions in financial difficulty to enable them to return to a sound financial position over time. The Government's plans for public funding for future years will be announced alongside the higher education strategy document in January.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if he will list the secondary modern schools which achieved better results at GCSE than the average for all-ability comprehensive schools in 2002. [87830]

£
	1997–98	1998–99	1999–2000	2000–01	2001–02
England	150	70	120	240	410
South East	80	30	80	200	300
East Sussex local education authority	90	30	90	240	330