§ Mr. Michael BrownTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the progress that has been made towards achieving equality of opportunity in the civil service. [6139]
§ Mr. FreemanConsiderable progress has been made. I have today published two reports on equal opportunities in the civil service—the 1996 data summary and "Equal Opportunities in the Civil Service—A Progress Report". The representation of women, members of the ethnic minorities and disabled people has increased against a backdrop of reducing staff members. Copies of both reports have been placed in the Libraries of the House.
86Wwith the exception of Northern Ireland Departments, where separate details are not recorded—for each of the last four years together with the current position is as follows: