HL Deb 22 July 1997 vol 581 cc154-5WA
Lord Lucas

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the European Commission pays sufficient attention to equal opportunities in selecting its employees.

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

It is for the European Commission to determine its own selection policies. The Commission has proposed changes to its staff regulations1 in respect of equal opportunities. These changes, which cover both recruitment and career development, are currently being discussed by a Council of Ministers working group. Her Majesty's Government are committed to the principle of equality of opportunity and encourage and welcome attempts by all employers to secure this. 1Amended proposal for a Council regulation amending the staff regulations of officials and conditions of employment of other servants of the European Communities in respect of equal treatment of men and women—Ref: COM(96)77 final.