§ Ms Janet AndersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to measure and evaluate the effect of his Department's policies on women. [5484]
§ Mr. SoamesMy Department's policies which are most likely to impact on women are those related to its role as an employer of service and civilian personnel. Where appropriate, statistical and other forms of monitoring are continually undertaken to assess the effectiveness of such policies. This is part of a range of practical measures included within annual programmes of action, aimed at promoting equal opportunities for female civilian personnel, and women in the armed forces. In addition, my officials are currently preparing guidance for service and civilian policy staffs on appraising policy proposals for equal treatment based on guidance which was circulated at Cabinet level for Departments to adapt to their own circumstances.