To ask the Secretary of State for Employment what information he has received about the progress made in Brussels in formulating the various directives arising out of the social charter; and if he will make a statement.

I understand that the Commission is well advanced with drafting a number of the directives in the social action programme; and that the first of these—on "atypical" work, for example, part-time and temporary work; and on the adaptation of working time—are expected to be published in June.