§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made in meeting targets for the proportion of people with disabilities in senior posts in the Department. [110527]
§ Mrs. LiddellThe Scotland Office, in conjunction with the Scottish Executive, has already undertaken a range of positive action measures to help meet targets of people with disabilities in senior posts in the Department. These include the increased use of open competitions and assessment centres to provide a wider pool of diverse applicants and the appointment of an outreach worker to increase numbers in our under-represented groups, including staff with disabilities. In addition, a varied programme of awareness raising initiatives is planned as part of the European Year of Disabled People, including seminars focusing on particular disabilities and a leaflet, issued to all staff, advising them of internal services and assistance available. Our annual disability self-declaration exercise will also take place later this month.