HC Deb 20 November 2002 vol 394 cc632-3
8. Julie Morgan (Cardiff, North)

What representations he has received about the Government's proposal to establish a single equality commission. [81545]

The Minister for Social Exclusion and Deputy Minister for Women (Mrs. Barbara Roche)

I have received many representations on the priorities and structure of equality institutions in Great Britain since I announced on 15 May the start of the project looking at these issues. On 23 October I published a consultation paper, and I am planning to make a series of visits beginning next week to hear views at first hand about these matters.

Julie Morgan

I know that my hon. Friend is aware that the Welsh Assembly has a statutory duty to promote equal opportunities as part of the Government of Wales Act 1998. Does she agree that a similar duty for the public sector would be a useful tool for any new commission?

Mrs. Roche

We are certainly looking at the experience of the various remote duties that we have introduced in recent years—it makes sense to learn from them before going further. I am looking forward to the visit that I hope to make to Swansea in January.

Peter Bottomley (Worthing, West)

The politically correct aim should be to achieve fairness, and the system needs to be effective. Will the Minister assure the House that she will learn the lessons of Northern Ireland, as some of us think that having a single body there was a bit premature?

Mrs. Roche

I understand the hon. Gentleman's concern about such matters; I know that he has a longstanding interest in them. I have visited the commission in Northern Ireland where experience has been positive. I have also spoken to people with many different views, and we shall certainly learn the lessons.

Linda Perham (Ilford, North)

Will the Minister recognise the positive contribution made by—[Interruption.]

Mr. Speaker

Order. The House is far too noisy; it is unfair to hon. Members.

Linda Perham

Will the Minister recognise the positive contribution made by the "Equal rights on age" group towards the single equality commission that she is trying to set up, and the group's campaigning work against age discrimination?

Mrs. Roche

I agree with my hon. Friend. I also pay tribute to the age advisory forum, which I chair and which is made up of members from the voluntary sector, trade unions and employers. It has made a real contribution to the process.