To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his Department's policy is on the display of religious (a) artefacts, (b) symbols and (c) dress by its staff; how many staff have been subject to disciplinary proceedings regarding this policy in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement. (95643)

The Northern Ireland Office has no explicit policy about the display of religious artefacts, symbols or dress. However, the Department's Equal Opportunities Policy contains general guidance stating

“The Northern Ireland Office is an Equal Opportunity employer. This means that we want everyone who works in the Department to be treated fairly and equally. We all have the right to equality of opportunity—and to a good and harmonious working environment. We should be able to work in an atmosphere which encourages us to use our talents and skills—and in which none of us feels threatened or intimidated.”

Both management and Trade Unions are fully committed to this policy that seeks to provide a workplace that encourages mutual respect, harmonious working and where no one feels threatened or intimidated.

No staff have been subject to disciplinary proceedings regarding these issues in the past five years.