HC Deb 14 February 2002 vol 380 c569W
Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many cases of work-related stress have been reported in his Department; how much compensation has been paid to employees; how many work days have been lost due to work-related stress, and at what cost; what procedures have been put in place to reduce work-related stress, and at what cost, in each of the last three years; and if he will make a statement. [35924]

Dr. Moonie

I will write to the hon. Member and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.

Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the effect of the Working Time Directive on his Department's employees; how many employees are working in excess of 48 hours per week; what steps he is taking to reduce this number; and if he will make a statement. [35886]

Dr. Moonie

It is the Ministry of Defence's policy to encourage civilian staff, at all levels, to move away from the long hours culture. Ten members of the senior civil service have signed opt outs. Officials are trying to establish the number of civil servants, other than senior civil servants, who have signed the voluntary opt out.

I will write to the hon. Member when this work is complete and place a copy of my letter in the Library of the House.