To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to combat racism in the armed services. [75977]

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his plans to combat racism within the armed services. [75971]

I place the highest priority on tackling racism within the Services. Our equal opportunities policies are ensuring that racism is challenged and that our Services more truly represent—and benefit from—our multi-cultural society.We are now working to develop a culture which welcomes racial diversity. I have agreed a new corporate framework for equal opportunities which will encourage this. I commend it to the House. A copy is being placed in the Library.