HL Deb 26 May 1999 vol 601 c91WA
Lord Mackenzie of Framwellgate

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action is being taken to increase the representation of women, members of the ethnic minority groups and disabled people on the boards of public bodies. [HL2683]

The Minister of State, Cabinet Office (Lord Falconer of Thoroton)

In June 1998, the Government launched a new initiative to increase the participation of under-represented groups in public life. Details of the Government's plan of action, including individual departmental plans, were published inQuangos: Opening Up Public Appointments, copies of which are in the Libraries of the House.

The action plan has now been updated. This requires all departments to continue their work towards the equal representation of women and men in public appointments, a pro-rata representation of members of ethnic minority groups and the increased participation of disabled people in public life. Individual departmental plans have also been updated and contain specific goals and objectives for the period 1999–2002. The revised plans were published yesterday, and copies have been placed in the Libraries of the House. The plans will also be made available electronically on the Internet.