§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken to implement the Senior Civil Service Review. [120108]
§ Mr. PearsonFollowing Lord Ouseley's report on the Review of Appointment and Promotion Procedures in the Senior Civil Service in Northern Ireland, the devolved Administration issued a consultation paper. This sought views oil two key recommendations—the recommendations on recruitment in the open market and on work-life balance—and on an action plan covering the remainder of the 25 recommendations made, excepting two which were outside the responsibility of t he devolved government. The recommendations have naturally required particularly 711W careful consideration in the light of suspension, but I anticipate that we shall be in a position to make an announcement shortly.