HC Deb 11 July 2002 vol 388 c1099W
34. Tom Brake

To ask the Minister if she will make a statement on progress in reducing the gender pay gap in the financial services sector. [66408]

Ms Hewitt

The pay gap between men and women currently stands at 18 per cent, down from 20 per cent. in 1997. In the financial services sector, the gap has reduced from 30 per cent. to 29 per cent. over the same time period. The Government are taking a number of steps to reduce the pay gap further. As well as the introduction of the National Minimum Wage and the provisions in the Employment Bill, the Fair Pay Champions and Castle Awards, are helping to spread good practice on equal pay. All Government Departments are committed to carrying out a pay review by March 2003.