§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action he is taking to increase the number of registered disabled persons in his Department; and when he expects to achieve the 3 per cent. target.
§ Mr. TomlinsonIn accordance with the Civil Service Department's code of practice, my right hon. Friend has appointed a departmental disabled persons officer who liaises with those responsible for the recruitment and career development of disabled employees, and ensures that their potentialities are not overlooked. The opportunities for registered disabled persons in the Diplomatic Service are limited because of the mobility 135W requirement, but the latest figures show that 2.2 per cent. of our staff are registered disabled people. I cannot forecast when the 3 per cent. target will be reached.