House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee

The Environmental Audit Committee looks at the environmental impact of all government departments and non-departmental public bodies. Established in 1997 as part of the incoming Labour government's manifesto it audits performance against any sustainable development and environmental protection targets.

Unlike most select committees, the Committee’s remit cuts across government rather than focuses on the work of a particular government department.

Fracking inquiry

In 2015 the committee heard evidence from the shale gas industry as part of its parliamentary inquiry into the environmental risks of fracking.

During its hearings Committee chair Joan Walley asked head of the new industry-funded Task Force on Shale Gas, Lord Chris Smith, if he was press the government to release an unredacted version of a report it released under Freedom of Information laws in mid-2014 into the impacts on rural communities. Lord Smith said he was committed to openness and would write to the government on the matter.

Activities

In the 2005-2010 Parliament, the Committee’s programme included inquiries on climate change and environmental fiscal measures (‘green taxation’), as well as sustainable development and environmental protection.

People

Joan Walley MP was elected by the House to be the Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee on 9 June 2010. The remaining members were appointed to the Committee on 26 July 2010.

• Joan Walley (Chair) Labour
• Peter Aldous Conservative
• Richard Benyon (ex-officio) Conservative
• Neil Carmichael Conservative
• Martin Caton Labour
• Katy Clark Labour
• Zac Goldsmith Conservative
• Simon Kirby Conservative
• Mark Lazarowicz Labour/Co-operative
• Caroline Lucas Green
• Ian Murray Labour
• Sheryll Murray Conservative
• Caroline Nokes Conservative
• Mark Spencer Conservative
• Dr Alan Whitehead Labour
• Simon Wright Liberal Democrat