§ 32. Mr. Colvinasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the effects of his Department's policies to promote fairness in employment in Northern Ireland.
§ Dr. BoysonThe Government are fully committed to equality of employment opportunity in Northern Ireland. They practice this within the Northern Ireland Civil Service, and funds independent agencies charged with its promotion. The Fair Employment Agency promotes equality of opportunity and the elimination of unlawful discrimination on the grounds of religious belief or political opinion. Tenders for Government contracts are accepted only from those who have been awarded the agency's certificate of fair employment.
Recently officials presented a comprehensive report on how our approach to equality of employment opportunity could be made more comprehensive, consistent and effective. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is considering that report in detail with a view to publishing proposals for discussion.