§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards the proposals put forward by the Commission for Racial Equality for the introduction of positive discrimination in employment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonI assume that the question refers to the draft code of practice which was formally submitted to my right hon. Friend by the Commission for Racial Equality on 21 December 1981. This provides guidance aimed at the elimination of racial discrimination and the promotion of equality of opportunity in employment, which in relation to discrimination in favour of minority groups or individuals does not go beyond the existing provisions for encouragement and training contained in the Race Relations Act 1976. It is not my right hon. Friend's intention to seek any extension of those provisions of the Act. As regards the draft code itself, my right hon. Friend is now considering what action to take on it, in accordance with section 47 of the 1976 Act.