§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 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. [35925]
§ Mr. BradshawInformation on cases of work-related stress is not held and could be obtained only at a disproportionate cost. No compensation has been paid to employees as a result of work-related stress.
As part of the Government's Revitalising Health and Safety initiative, the FCO commissioned a stress audit by external consultants, who reported in 2001. An action plan was subsequently produced to implement the consultant's recommendations. Under the direction of an action group, management courses are now being redesigned to ensure that staff are better trained to recognise and deal with work-related stress; health promotion activities have been enhanced; and ways of improving existing access to confidential advice and support are being investigated. Since these activities form part of the ongoing work of the FCO's Administration, it is impossible to identify the costs involved separately.
§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 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. [35887]
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§ Mr. BradshawThe FCO is committed to reducing the number of its employees working long hours. In order to balance this commitment with the requirements of running a round-the-clock business world-wide, we have concluded an agreement on Working Time with the Trades Unions representing our employees.