Written question asked by Helen Jones (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 11 November 1998. It was answered by Peter Kilfoyle (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 November 1998 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Cabinet Office

Question: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what plans he has to change the Government's policy on non-disclosure of information on the ethnic origin of individuals appointed to public bodies.

Answer: Helen Jones: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has to change the Government's policy on non-disclosure of information on the ethnic origin of individuals appointed to public bodies. [59575] Mr. Kilfoyle: In line with the Government's commitment to greater openness in public appointments, a new policy is being introduced with effect from 1 April 1999. This will require all departments to collect ethnic origin data for their public appointees, on the understanding that such information will be made publicly available on request, subject to the consent of the individuals concerned. The policy will apply to new appointments and re-appointments made from that date.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 59575; 319 c200W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Freedom of information Ethnic groups Public appointments Monitoring Minority groups