Defra and DfID Ministers call for suppliers to encourage local authority timber procurement policies

Defra Minister Phil Woolas and DfID Minister Gareth Thomas have co-authored an article calling for suppliers to encourage local authorities to develop a sustainable timber procurement policy. The article, published in the Timber Trade Journal on 29th March highlights the importance of influencing the wider public sector in reducing rates of deforestation and promoting legal and sustainable forestry. The article stresses the important link suppliers have with public sector buyers ensuring suppliers often have more direct access and influence than government.

The article further highlights how encouraging local authorities to develop a timber procurement policy can be beneficial to suppliers. Phil Woolas and Gareth Thomas state that "Some companies are already talking to local authorities and they report that contracts are more likely to be renewed with those who encouraged them to buy sustainable timber in the first place".

"There is considerable scope for suppliers to promote their business. We need to work with you to encourage further demand for sustainable timber from across the public sector. "

The involvement of Ministers in this process is part of Defra's wider timber procurement implementation strategy focusing on raising awareness, increasing monitoring and reporting across the central and local government estate. 

For full details and to read the Ministerial article in the TTJ here.