§ Sandra GidleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the subjects of the gender impact assessments drawn up by her Department since its creation, indicating in each case whether the outcome has been(a) put out to consultation and (b) published. [66732]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 4 July 2002]: Guidance on ensuring that polices and procedures are inclusive and take full account of the needs and experiences of those affected by them has been issued to all Divisions which now make up DEFRA.
The guidance requires, among other things, the preparation of an impact analysis during policy development in cases where there is a possibility of differential impact on different groups such as men and women. Whilst no formal impact assessments have been drawn up since the creation of DEFRA, current consultation arrangements ensure that a good range of organisations, including those representing women, have been contacted for their views on a wide range of issues proposals.