§ Mr. Freudasked the Paymaster General what information is available to his Department on the availability of workplace creches and the average charges made for such facilities; what steps he is taking to encourage such provision; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangMy Department does not collect information about the availability and cost of workplace creches. We certainly encourage employers to introduce measures to improve equal opportunities in employment as appropriate to their circumstances. The Equal Opportunities Commission code of practice, which was approved by Parliament and came into force last year,586W mention workplace creches as one of a number of arrangements which can assist both employer and employee by helping to provide continuity of employment to working parents.