§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will place in the Library copies of gender impact assessments which have been undertaken in respect of legislation introduced in this Parliament; if he will make it his policy to do so in respect of future legislation; and if he will make a statement. [47024]
§ Ms QuinThe gender perspective in policy making is being addressed through the cross-Departmental mainstreaming initiative which the Ministers for Women launched on 18 May. This involved wide consultation in the formation of new guidelines. These guidelines will require Departments to consider how policy proposals affect women; consult with women's organisations where appropriate; and take action where the differential impact is not justifiable.
The Ministers for Women intend to publish an Annual Report to Parliament setting out progress on mainstreaming the women's perspective into Government policy making. The first report will be published after the end of this financial year.