HC Deb 02 December 1991 vol 200 cc20-2
44. Mr. Hague

To ask the Minister for the Civil Service what progress has been made in achieving equal opportunities for women in the civil service.

Mr. Renton

Much has been achieved since 1984, when the Government launched a programme of action on equal opportunities for women in the civil service. A report on progress was published on 28 October and copies have been placed in the Library. To keep up the momentum, a new programme for action will be launched in the spring.

Mr. Hague

I congratulate my right hon. Friend on the progress that has been made so far. What improvements have been achieved in the proportion of women recruits entering fast stream competition? How many Departments have joined Opportunity 2000 and what is my right hon. Friend doing to encourage the rest to do so?

Mr. Renton

I thank my hon. Friend for his support. In 1984, 28 per cent. of those entering administrative fast stream competition were women and the proportion is now just over 40 per cent. That figure emphasises the position of women in the future because they are the people from whom the future top people will be chosen.

Four Departments have already signed up, but many more are considering doing so. I have no doubt that in a few weeks' time the number will increase.