To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many complaints of bullying have been investigated in his Department in the last 12 months; and how many complaints have been upheld. (134825)

DFID’s grievance procedures are fully compliant with UK legislation and apply to civil servants working in the UK and overseas. We also apply them to our locally appointed staff overseas, who work under local contacts, unless local law dictates otherwise.

DFID investigated less than five complaints of bullying in the last 12 months. Due to the small number, a breakdown by number, employment status and outcome is not made public on the grounds of confidentiality.