Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Friday, 25 April 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 4 June 2003. It was answered by Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 June 2003 on behalf of the Scotland Office.

Scotland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what progress has been made in meeting targets for the proportion of people with disabilities in senior posts in the Department.

Answer: Mr. Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made in meeting targets for the proportion of people with disabilities in senior posts in the Department. [110527] Mrs. Liddell: The Scotland Office, in conjunction with the Scottish Executive, has already undertaken a range of positive action measures to help meet targets of people with disabilities in senior posts in the Department. These include the increased use of open competitions and assessment centres to provide a wider pool of diverse applicants and the appointment of an outreach worker to increase numbers in our under- represented groups, including staff with disabilities. In addition, a varied programme of awareness raising initiatives is planned as part of the European Year of Disabled People, including seminars focusing on particular disabilities and a leaflet, issued to all staff, advising them of internal services and assistance available. Our annual disability self-declaration exercise will also take place later this month.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 110527; 406 c464W;406 c465W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Disability Government Recruitment Staff Scotland Standards Senior civil servants Scotland Office
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk