To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what training courses he has attended in the last 12 months to assist him in his ministerial role. (78224)

I have not attended any training courses in the past 12 months, but rely on my 10 years’ seafaring experience, five years’ experience as a union official, 36 years’ experience as a Member of Parliament and nine years as a Minister in the Cabinet to help me fulfil my role to the best of my ability.

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether he has received diversity training since becoming a Government Minister. (70122)

New Ministers are offered an induction course following general elections or substantial reshuffles. These are run by the National School of Government in conjunction with the Cabinet Office and Her Majesty's Treasury. I also rely on my 10 years' seafaring experience, five years’ experience as a union official, 36 years' experience as a Member of Parliament and nine years as a Minister in the Cabinet to help me fulfil my role to the best of my ability.

I am fully committed to the principles of diversity. Since coming into Government in 1997, we have brought in the Civil Partnership Act 2004, Disability Discrimination Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2006, as well as the Work and Families Bill which is currently before the House. All of these measures are actively helping to promote diversity throughout our society.