Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many equality impact assessments have been carried out in the last three years on public service reforms which impact on (a) departmental staff and (b) members of the public; and if he will make a statement.

As an employer DWP are committed to equality and valuing diversity in our workforce. DWP policies, guidance and procedures continually raise awareness to assure that any new policies or policy changes do not discriminate unfairly against claimants/customers, employees or external partners under the protected characteristics outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

The Equality Act 2010 is embedded into DWP processes and policies, however, the information requested is not collated centrally and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.