§ Mr. ConnartyTo ask the Leader of the House what assessment has been made of the amendments required to the rules of the House to ensure that all equal opportunity and rights at work related laws apply to hon. Members and their staff. [167854]
§ Mr. HainHon. Members are, in their capacity as employers, subject to employment rights legislation and in particular equality legislation in the same way as other employers. The House authorities have a role in encouraging good practice. For example, the Department of Finance and Administration recently circulated information about the implications of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
Hon. Members themselves are holders of elective office and are not employees for the purpose of employment rights legislation.