Commission for Equality and Human Rights

HC Deb 28 May 2004 vol 422 cc101-2W

Mr. Stephen O'Brien

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry under what protocols the Commission for Equality and Human Rights will work (a)with and (b)through the (i) regional development agencies, (ii) the Small Business Service and (iii) ACAS. [175327]

Ms Hewitt

As set out in our White Paper, "Fairness for All: A New Commission for Equality and Human Rights", the CEHR will have a presence in each of the nine English regions. We expect the new body to develop a constructive and productive relationship with key partner organisations such as the regional development agencies, the Small Business Service and ACAS in order to promote compliance and good practice and provide accurate, high quality advice in a range of different formats and through different intermediaries. The new Board, when appointed, will no doubt want to agree arrangements with the partner bodies as soon as practicable.