HL Deb 08 September 2003 vol 652 cc3-4WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What provision they have made for members of the Northern Ireland Civil Service who have a hidden disability such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, in promotion boards and similar procedures. [HL3907]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Candidates who declare a disability are asked to identify any special requirements they may need at interview or test. Reasonable adjustments are made in accordance with the nature of the disability.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What arrangements they make for candidates for entrance into the Northern Ireland Civil Service who may be dyslexic or dyspraxic or have another hidden disability. [HL3908]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Reasonable adjustments are made in accordance with the nature of the disability. This can include setting aside the normal academic requirements for administrative posts. or additional time to sit tests etc. Guidance is taken from bodies such as the British Dyslexia Association in deciding what is reasonable in specific cases.