§ Mr. JenkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what strategies his Department has to ensure that there is no ageism in recruitment and retention processes. [79290]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienAll recruitment to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition. This is in line with the Civil Service Commissioners' Recruitment Code. It means that all applicants are treated equally regardless of age, gender or marital status, ethnic origin or disability.
There are upper age limits for application to join the Diplomatic Service. Applicants must be able to complete at least one overseas tour before the normal retirement age. This allows us to achieve a sensible return on recruitment and training costs.