Written question asked by David Anderson (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 May 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 June 2010. It was answered by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 June 2010 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Trade Unions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans he has to consult trade unions in his Department concerning deficit reduction plans.

Answer: Consistent with the Cabinet Office Code of Practice on Informing and Consulting Employee, it is the Department for International Development's (DFID's) normal practice to consult and communicate with staff and their representatives. There are a number of mechanisms through which we do this, including departmental Whitley council meetings, frequent meetings between DFID's HR director's and the chair of the Trade Union side and regular meetings senior managers hold with their staff.We also carry out meaningful consultation with staff and their representatives on specific change proposals. When we have any specific proposals we will engage and consult.

Secondary information