HC Deb 31 July 1997 vol 299 cc492-3W
Mr. Winnick

To ask the Prime Minister what is the Government's policy towards age discrimination in elections to public bodies. [11713]

The Prime Minister

Appointments to public bodies are governed by the overriding principle of selection based on merit. The Commissioner for Public Appointments' "Guidance on Appointment's to Executive Non-Departmental Public Bodies and NHS bodies", which is mandatory for all Government Departments, states that age should not be a criterion in drawing up a specification for a public appointment unless there is a need to balance the age range of membership. However, even then, age should not be used as the deciding factor when making appointments.

Mr. Winnick

To ask the Prime Minister what is Her Majesty's Government's policy on age discrimination in employment; and if he will make a statement. [11792]

Mr. Alan Willians

To ask the Prime Minister what is his policy in relation to age discrimination; and what steps have been taken to implement the policy. [11806]

The Prime Minister

The Government firmly believe that age discrimination is unfair and makes no economic sense for business or society. However, tackling it is a complex matter and it is important to ensure that any action we take will bring real benefits. That is why we have already announced our intention to consult widely on age discrimination in employment to obtain a consensus on the best way forward.