To ask the Secretary of State for Employment what further steps his Department is taking to discourage the practice of age discrimination among employers.

The Government believe that older workers are a valuable resource. Age discrimination is unfair to individuals and not in an employer's own interest. We continue to put this message across to employers through various media, particularly in the context of publicity about demographic change. In addition, instructions to jobcentre staff have been strengthened to ensure all upper age limits on vacancies notified by employers are challenged. There are encouraging signs that employers are heeding this message. We will continue our efforts to ensure this progress continues.