§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what new data series separated by gender, race, disability and age have been commissioned by his Department since June 1997. [90531]
§ Mr. MorleyMAFF has not commissioned any new internal surveys separated by gender, race, disability or age since June 1997. It is an area which is kept constantly under review.
MAFF established a database of information relating to the ethnic origin of staff in 1989. The information is collected voluntarily and is updated annually. The database currently holds information on 95 per cent. of staff.
MAFF undertook a Disability Survey of all staff in 1996. All new staff are issued with a Disability Questionnaire and staff can provide new or updated information at any time.
MAFF has records on gender, race, disability and age for each member of staff which are used to provide statistical data on the composition of the work force, performance and promotion, location etc.