Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps he is taking in respect of each public body for which he is responsible to encourage (a) active travel by staff, (b) the use of public transport by staff and (c) a reduction in the carbon emissions associated with staff commuting.

Where staff are required to travel on official business, the departmental policy encourages the use of sustainable modes of transport. Public transport should always be considered first whilst value for money must be a priority. Staff are encouraged to use the cycle to work scheme and can also be reimbursed for using their own bicycles.

The department and responsible public bodies are committed to reducing the overall greenhouse gas emissions. This is progressed as part of our committed targets under the Greening Government Commitments.