§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps his Department has taken to improve racial equality in the armed forces in the last 12 months; and if he will make a statement. [108744]
§ Mr. SpellarThe Armed Forces continue to work hard to develop an organisational culture that welcomes racial diversity and places the highest priority on tackling racism within the Services. Within the framework of the Partnership Agreement with the Commission for Racial Equality, the cornerstone for Service racial equality policies, the Armed Forces are committed to reflecting more closely the rich ethnic balance of our society, and to be a beacon for others in the promotion of racial equality.
During the last 12 months the Armed Forces Equal Opportunities goal was published on 22 March 1999, Official Report, column 10W, and seeks to achieve universal acceptance and application of a working environment free from harassment, intimidation and unlawful discrimination, in which all have equal opportunity, consistent with our legal obligations, to realise their full potential in contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of operational effectiveness. The Armed Forces respect and value every individual's unique contribution, irrespective of their race, ethnic origin, religion or gender and without reference to social background or sexual orientation.
The Service Heads of Chaplaincy are currently working with the Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh Religious Advisers to the Armed Forces to establish a network of "Chaplains" from minority faiths in order to ensure that the spiritual and moral needs of Service personnel from minority faiths are provided for. Additionally, as part of the Armed Forces' aim to cater for all special religious dietary requirements, Vegetarian, Halal and Kosher Operational Ration Packs have been introduced.
Education and awareness of equality issues is central in the drive to eradicate unacceptable behaviour in the Armed Forces. Comprehensive equal opportunity training is undertaken widely across the Services in addition to the specialist training provided by the Tri-Service Equal Opportunities Training Centre at Shrivenham.
The Armed Forces continue to stress their policy of zero tolerance towards all forms of racial discrimination and harassment.