§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he has received any recent representations about pilot or permanent workplace creches and similar incentives further to encourage the return to employment of women in his Department; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveA survey to assess likely demand for a diplomatic and aid wing child care facility was recently carried out prior to a feasibility study completed in May this year. The results of this feasibility study are now being considered.
Both the diplomatic and aid wings also contributed to the setting up fund for a 1989 Westminster holiday play 600W scheme, and children of school age of employees in both wings registered to take part. Separate play schemes are being planned at outer London aid wing locations.
A number of measures have been introduced in both the diplomatic and aid wings in recent years, designed to further the FCO equal opportunities policy—for instance, the introduction of flexible working hours, and the extension of special unpaid leave arrangements (for up to a total of five years) to enable an officer to meet domestic responsibilities.