HC Deb 16 October 2002 vol 390 c886W
Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1) what steps he is taking to implement the recommendations of the Regional Implementation Strategy for the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing 2002, adopted by EU ministers on 13 September; [74322]

(2) If he will publish an action plan to take forward the recommendations of the Regional Implementation Strategy for the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing 2002, adopted by EU ministers on 13 September. [74323]

Mr. McCartney

The Regional Implementation Strategy for the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing 2002 was adopted by UNECE Ministers on 13 September. The Government believes that existing policies for older people will provide the basis for progress towards the ten priorities of the Regional Strategy.

The Strategy aims to support member states' response to the challenges and opportunities of population ageing, in order to achieve a society for all ages. It does not set mandatory requirements, nor does it require member states to produce action plans to take forward the recommendations. UNECE member states will determine follow up arrangements in line with decisions made by the Commission for Social Development of the UN.