Current status: Answered by Andy Kerr on 29 July 2002
To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has a stated policy on equal pay.
The Scottish Executive's policy on equal pay is currently covered by its general policy on equal opportunities which provides that staff should be treated equally in respect of all matters. This policy is set out in the Staff Handbook which is available to staff and recognised Trade Unions. In addition, a review of the Scottish Executive's pay system will be undertaken in the autumn with a view to identifying whether there are any gender pay gaps or other inequalities. Following the review, which is expected to be completed by April 2003, the Scottish Executive will publish a specific policy on equal pay.