HL Deb 07 November 2002 vol 640 cc163-4WA
Lord Ouseley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the terms of reference of the Race Equality Advisory Panel; how often the panel meets; and what is the cost per annum of this initiative. [HL6314]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office (Lord Filkin):

The terms of reference of the Race Equality Advisory Panel have not yet been finally agreed but are likely to be along the lines of:

The Race Equality Advisory Panel will be a source of advice on matters related to race equality. It will:

Help develop strategy on race equality;

Advise on implementing and delivering existing policy/programmes;

Provide ad hoc advice on specific topics;

Provide a link to communities.

The working arrangements of the panel are also yet to be finalised, but it is envisaged that it will meet as a whole when necessary and that members will be asked to attend specific meetings with officials and Ministers when their particular expertise is required.

The cost per annum is difficult to estimate in advance as members will be reimbursed for lost earnings and the travel and subsistence costs incurred by their attendance.

Lord Ouseley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will name the members of the Race Equality Advisory Panel; what is each individual's age; how the panel was selected and appointed; and what is the expertise of each member. [HL6315]

Lord Filkin:

Members have not yet been appointed to the Race Equality Advisory Panel.

All the members of the Race Relations Forum have been invited to register an interest in these positions.

I will write to the noble Lord once further details are known.