§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what progress has been made with the pay review in her Department, agencies and non-departmental public bodies for which she is responsible, with particular reference to the gender pay gap; and if she will make a statement. [106742]
§ Dr. HowellsIn response to the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) Task Force 'Just Pay' Report the Government committed departments and agencies to review their pay systems and prepare any necessary action plans to close any equal pay gaps by April 2003. The Cabinet Office issued comprehensive guidance in January 2002 to assist departments and agencies in carrying out these reviews. Additional guidance on completing equal pay action plans was issued in early March 2003.
DCMS completed its review in July 2002. No significant difference between the salaries of males and females was found. Proposals for change and other recommendations were accepted by the trade unions, subject to pay negotiations.
The Royal Parks Agency has completed an initial review but has yet to discuss the outcome with its Trade Union Side. No particular gender pay issues have been identified.
312WThe Department's NDPBs have either completed equal pay reviews or are in the process of finalising them and drawing up action plans. If any equal pay issues are identified, these will be addressed through the pay negotiation process.