§ Baroness Howe of Idlicoteasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the basis on which remuneration is currently paid to members of some public bodies but not others; and [HL1006]
What is the rationale for some government departments paying more to members of their public bodies than other government departments for posts which are equally responsible and demanding; and [HL1007]
100WAWhether they have carried out any study of public body remuneration analysing:
- (a) the basis on which it is currently made: an
- (b) the cost involved in extending remuneration to more or all appointees and its likely effect on increasing diversity. [HL1008]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonIndividual departments are responsible for determining whether remuneration should be paid to members of the public bodies they sponsor and the level at which any remuneration is set. The Cabinet Office is currently looking at the issue of remuneration and how it is paid, and will issue guidance to departments when this work has been completed.
§ Baroness Howe of Idlicoteasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have comparative figures for members of different diversity groups who fail to complete their first term in office on public bodies or do not seek reappointment at the end of one term. [HL1024]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonAt the present time comparative figures are not available. However, the Cabinet Office is keen to encourage departments to undertake periodic audits of the reasons why people resign from boards, or do not seek reappointment. The Cabinet Office, together with departments and the Commissioner for Public Appointments, will be developing guidance to enable departments to monitor any emerging trends and take action.
§ Baroness Howe of Idlicoteasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether there is sufficient training and support available both for those wishing to apply for appointment to public bodies and for those appointed. [HL1025]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonIndividual departments and their public bodies are responsible for providing training and support for individuals appointed to serve on those bodies. They may also offer opportunities for shadowing to those who wish to apply for appointments and would like to gain an insight into the work of public bodies.
The Cabinet Office is working with departments to develop more opportunities for shadowing and mentoring to encourage and support individuals who are interested in applying for appointments. It is also working to identify best practice in induction and support for those already serving on public bodies, and will issue this to departments when this work is completed.