HL Deb 20 March 1997 vol 579 c90WA
Baroness Gould of Potternewton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether all employers will receive a copy of the Code of Practice on Equal Pay.

The Minister of State, Department for Education and Emplyoment (Lord Henley)

It would not be cost effective to distribute the Code of Practice to every employer. So far, over 7,000 copies have been distributed to a wide range of employers, employer and employee organisations and others, such as the Industrial Tribunals and Job Centres. The code has also been widely publicised in various employment journals and is available to all who wish to see it free of charge from the Equal Opportunities Commission.

Baroness Gould of Potternewton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In what format the Code of Practice on Equal Pay is to be produced for the general public.

Lord Henley

The Code of Practice has been produced in the form of a booklet comprising 21 pages in language readily understood by employers, employees and members of the public. It is available free of charge from the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC). I understand that the EOC have sent a copy of the code to the noble Baroness for information.

Baroness Gould of Potternewton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What plans there are to implement the Code of Practice on Equal Pay in the Department of Education and Employment.

Lord Henley

For many years it has been Civil Service policy to eliminate all unfair discrimination in its pay and personnel policies and procedures. The DfEE constantly monitors the effectiveness of its policies and revises these as necessary. The DfEE therefore welcomes the EOC Code of Practice.