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House of Commons Commission

Answer

Mrs. Calton: To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, what procedures are in place to promote race equality and equality of opportunity for employees in the Palace of Westminster. [41937] Mr. Kirkwood: [holding answer 11 March 2002]: The House of Commons Service values the diversity of its staff and is committed to developing the working practices which will allow every member of staff to contribute his or her best, regardless of race, sex, marital status, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant factor. The following arrangements to promote race equality and equality of opportunity for employees are in place: Equal opportunities training for all staff; Recruitment monitoring; Provision of child care vouchers; Paid maternity and paternity leave; Access to caring leave; Job share and part time working arrangements; Holiday play scheme; Work experience schemes, targeting under-represented groups; Provision of prayer room facility during Ramadan; Preferential access to leave for religious holidays; Bullying and harassment policy and procedure; No nationality restrictions for employment; All staff are able to apply for any House vacancy following a successful probationary period; Adaptations and aids available for staff with disabilities; Rehabilitation leave to facilitate return to work following sickness absence; Parental leave; Career breaks.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

41937; 381 c1114-5W;381 c1116-7W

Session

2001-02

Subjects

Equality House of Commons Palace of Westminster Racial discrimination

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk