§ 14. Helen JacksonTo ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what steps she is taking to ensure equal opportunity recruitment policies in the Civil Service. [124278]
§ Mr. StringerThe Government are committed to a diverse Civil Service which reflects the society it serves, and has set targets of 35 per cent., 3.2 per cent., and 3 per cent. for the representation of women, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities in the Senior Civil Service by 2004–05. Departments have also set targets for these groups outside the Senior Civil Service.
Recruitment to the Civil Service is on merit, through fair and open competition. We want the best people for the work, whatever their background.