§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will list the subject of each gender impact assessment drawn up by his Department since June 1997, stating in each case whether the outcome has been(a) put out to consultation and (b) published. [91678]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Government is committed to making sure that its policies are fair and inclusive and take full account of the needs and experiences of all those affected by them.
Although the nature of the Ministry's responsibilities means that much of its activity does not have a gender-specific impact, the Ministry has guidance in place which requires, among other things, the preparation of an impact analysis during policy development in cases where there is the possibility of differential impact on differing groups such as men and women. No formal impact assessments have been drawn up since June 1997. The women's organisations listed in the answer given by my
140Whon. Friend the Minister of State on 23 June 1999, Official Report, column 418, have been contacted for views on a wide range of policies, and on legislative proposals.