§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what recent representations he has received on age discrimination. [64052]
§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what proposals he has to discourage age discrimination; and if he will make a statement. [64051]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithWith key partners such as TUC, CBI and Age Concern, we have been developing a draft code of practice to promote age diversity in employment. It covers all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection training, development, redundancy and retirement.
The most recent representations on age discrimination in employment have been on the subject of the draft Code which was published for wider consultation on 16 November 1998. We are pleased with the wide interest the draft prompted, with copies being distributed to individuals, businesses, interest groups representing older people and Trades Unions. The consultation came to an end on 8 January and we are currently analysing the responses and representations we have received. The full version of the Code will be launched in the Spring.