§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will collect statistics on the religious affiliation of staff employed in local government with special reference to Muslim women in the work force; and if he will make a statement. [55441]
§ Dr. WhiteheadMy Department has no plans to do so. Some local authorities already collect and monitor statistics relating to diversity and equal opportunity issues. However, this does not currently include religious affiliation of staff. In 2003 legislation against discrimination of grounds of religion or belief will come into force in order to comply with our responsibilities under the employment directive. All employers, including local authorities, will need to consider how best to meet their responsibilities under this legislation. The best employers will recognise the advantages of a fully diverse work force.