§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for Defence what equal opportunity policies are run by the Army; what personnel are involved in the implementation of such policies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Army is an equal opportunity employer under the terms of the Race Relations Act 1976. No form of racial discrimination is tolerated either in recruitment or subsequent employment. Any complaint of racial discrimination brought by a member of the Army concerning his treatment in the service would be fully investigated under the redress of grievance procedures. With regard to opportunities for women, the Army is not subject to the provisions of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975. It is, nevertheless, Ministry of Defence policy to accord women equal employment opportunities in the Army wherever possible other than in combat roles. In areas where women are employed they compete on equal terms with their male counter-parts for appointments and promotion.
The Adjutant General and his staff, together with the chain of command, are responsible for implementation of these policies under the Secretary of State for Defence.