The Scottish Government

Enterprise, Energy and Tourism ( EET)

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

The EET Directorate is responsible for the following policy areas:

• Business Growth and Innovation;
• Energy and Telecommunications;
• Enterprise and Industry;
• Sponsorship of Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise;
• European Structural Funds;
• Innovation and Investment Grants; and
• Sponsorship of VisitScotland, tourism policy and Whisky Legislation.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

The EET Directorate seeks to deliver the Scottish Government's Wealthier and Fairer Objective to focus Government and public services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth.

The EET Directorate is fully committed to the promotion of race equality. The National Performance Framework commits the Scottish Government to "… have tackled significant inequalities of Scottish society". The EET Directorate will contribute towards this outcome under the Economic Growth and Sustainability indicators by ensuring staff are aware of need to ensure equalities duties are met when developing policy. Where appropriate EQIA assessments will be undertaken.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

The majority of the work of the EET Directorate targets businesses operating in Scotland. What we know about self-employment and business ownership is:

• In 2001, the proportion of all people in employment who were self-employed was highest for the following ethnic groups; Pakistani (32%), Chinese (23%) and Indian (22%). Bangladeshi and Other South Asian also have high rates of self-employment (20% for both groups). By comparison, self-employment rates were substantially lower for the following groups; White Scottish (10%) and Caribbean (10%) and people in the African group had the lowest rate of self-employment at 8%.

[Source: Census 2001 statistics presented in High Level Summary of Equality Statistics]

• A scoping study on Minority Ethnic Businesses ( MEBs) in Scotland reports that the 2001 Census found that Minority Ethnic business owners account for just over 3 per cent of all self-employed in Scotland. Based on this, the authors estimate that there are over 4,400 Minority Ethnic registered enterprises in Scotland.

[Source: Minority Ethnic Enterprise in Scotland 2005]

• However, the more recent Survey of Small Businesses (2006) found that 6 per cent of all small businesses with employees in Scotland were Minority Ethnic led, that is led by a member of a minority ethnic group or a management team with at least half of its members from minority ethnic groups.
• In Glasgow, MEBs account for 11% of the self-employed and 14% of small employers in the city. It is estimated that there are over 1,600 VAT registered MEBs in Glasgow alone. Edinburgh and Dundee also have relatively high concentrations of MEBs, with MEB owners accounting for 5% and 7% respectively of the self-employed in each of these cities.

[Source: Minority Ethnic Enterprise in Scotland]

• The scoping study carried out on Minority Ethnic businesses in Scotland estimated that the 4,400+ registered Minority Ethnic enterprises in Scotland contribute between £500 million to £700 million towards Scotland's GDP¹⁶.

[Source: Minority Ethnic Enterprise in Scotland]

These figures need to be considered in the context of the ethnic minority population:

• The size of the minority ethnic population was just over 100,000 in 2001 or 2.0% of the total population of Scotland (based on the 2001 ethnicity classification). This compares to just over 60,000 in 1991 or 1.2% (based on the 1991 ethnicity classification)

[Source: Census 2001 statistics presented in High Level Summary of Equality Statistics]

What the data tells us is that individuals from ethnic minorities are making an enhanced contribution to Scotland's business base: from a population density of some 2%, they are leading 6% of all small businesses in Scotland. In Glasgow, the numbers are significantly higher.

The implication of this for EET Directorate is that we need to make sure that all EET policies fully engage with the ethnic minority business base, otherwise we risk sub-optimal outcomes.

The 2000 - 2006 European Structural Fund Programmes which are to close by June 2009.

YES

European Funding went into the EQUAL Community Initiative to assist with the employment and assimilation of Asylum Seekers through the ATLAS Partnership in Glasgow.

Carried out by the Managing Authority for the European programmes within the Structural Fund Division in Enterprise, Energy and Tourism Directorate

Information on ethnic minority beneficiaries is collected as part of the Programme's performance monitoring. The analysis of this data is part of the evaluation of the Programmes' performance, and of individual project's performance.

Improving the prospects of individuals from ethnic minority communities to contribute fully to the economic growth of Scotland.

This is through participation in specifically tailored projects across employability, skills development, and language skills.

Some projects are aimed at entrepreneurial skills for individuals from BEM communities.

The 2007 - 2013 European Structural Fund Programmes

Prior to the introduction of the 2007 - 2013 programmes

Additional Funding went into the EMPOWER Partnership to assist with employment initiatives for the Black and Ethnic Minority community.

A number of case studies were prepared for the Mid Term Evaluation of the 2000 - 2006 O3 Programmes, and others from the EQUAL Community Initiative. They include examples of projects aimed at promoting equal opportunities for ethnic minorities wishing to expand or set up in business, such as an Ethnic Minority Business Scheme part funded by ERDF Objective 2 and Scottish Enterprise.

The Highlands and Islands Equality Forum set up using European Funding has prepared welcome packs for employers who are recruiting from ethnic minority groups.

Together, these activities contribute to the following National Outcomes:

• We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive place for doing business in Europe
• We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people
• We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society

Saltire Prize

Yes - currently being carried out. Will be completed before launch.

The Saltire Prize is a positive example of a Scottish Government policy which promotes race equality.

The Saltire Prize will be launched in 2009.

Race equality will be promoted as interested persons/parties will be informed of and encouraged to compete in the Prize.

The communication plan for promotion of the Saltire Prize will be wide-ranging and on an international scale. It will not only raise interest in the actual prize but will also promote the skills and resources that Scotland enjoys in the renewables, innovation and science sectors.

The Saltire Prize is an international innovation prize in marine renewable energy and is open to any interested persons/parties in the world to compete in, regardless of age, race, religion, gender etc.

We will promote equality of opportunity by ensuring marketing literature is available in a variety of formats and is distributed to a wide range of organisations, associations and events including minority ethnic groups .

The Scottish Government's Saltire Prize project team will be actively promoting the Prize next year, encouraging interested parties throughout the world to consider competing.

The Prize will also promote good relations between people of different racial groups as collaborative working between experienced teams at a European and International level will be encouraged.

Our actions will contribute towards the following National Outcomes in order of greatest relevance:

• We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production
• We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation
• We take pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity

Delivering the Regional Selective Assistance and SMART: SCOTLAND grants to support business growth, productivity and innovation.

Yes. Completed March 2008.

We will promote equality of opportunity by ensuring marketing literature is available in a variety of formats and is distributed to a wide range of organisations, associations and events including minority ethnic groups .

This will be carried out by innovation and investment grants division on an ongoing basis.

Increased awareness and equitable access for all eligible firms to business support and innovation support grants.

To contribute to Government Economic Strategy to help create opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish increasing sustainable economic growth and make Scotland an attractive place to do business.

Support via VisitScotland for Scotland's tourism sector (principally marketing of the sector)

VisitScotland - in progress - end of 2008

VisitScotland EQIA will identify any actions needed to promote race equality and tackle discrimination in its work

VisitScotland.

During 2009

A VisitScotland service and a Scottish tourism sector which is renowned for the warmth of its welcome to its visitors of all ethnicities.

We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society

Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

The Directorate is responsible for dealing with planning and related appeals, reporting to Ministers on cases that they determine and reporting on local plans in Scotland.

The Directorate is committed to improving the delivery of our services. To achieve this we aim to work with partners within government and the wider community to ensure that the entire decision making process in respect of appeals and called-in applications are equality proofed in respect of race equality.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

Our commitment to race equality is to ensure that the service we deliver is not discriminatory and that we identify and remove barriers and discrimination that arises from any inequality. We will endeavour to promote equality and ensure that all communities have fair and equal access to the planning appeals system.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

At present no data is collected on ethnicity of appellants or other parties taking part in the Planning and Environmental Appeal process. Therefore there is no direct evidence about experience of this group. We aim to offer guidance drafted in plain English and this is being reviewed as new procedures are due to be introduced in 2009. Translation services are available upon request.

Efficient processing of planning and environmental appeals

No 2009/10

Head of Administration

Aim to undertake a customer survey which will include an ethnicity question in the questionnaire, to identify any gaps in services including any possible race discrimination.

End 2008/09

Promote equality of opportunity for all

2 We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people.

Fairer and more transparent processes that encourage engagement and a better understanding of the planning process

No 2009/10

Head of Administration

Aim to undertake a customer survey which will include an ethnicity question in the questionnaire, to identify any gaps in services including any possible race discrimination.

End 2008/09

Identification and correction of gaps of unlawful discrimination within the planning and environmental appeal processes.

11 We have a strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others.

Develop better opportunities for engagement and efficient service delivery by e-enablement

No 2009/10

Head of Administration

We will consider how best to increase minority ethnic communities awareness of the planning and environmental appeals process through promotion of our service.

2009/10

Improved understanding of the role of DPEA

13 We take pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity.

Modernising the appeals and development plan examination system to improve inclusion and engagement; speed up the process; and deliver quicker decisions

No 2009

Head of Administration

Aim to improve inclusion and engagement, speed of process and delivery ensuring elimination of possible race discrimination

We will consider how best to promote this service to minority ethnic communities.

2009

Promotion of good relations through clear understanding of roles and responsibilities.

11 We have a strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others.

The Directorate for the Built Environment

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

The Directorate covers the Government's role in relation to the built environment, primarily Town and Country Planning, Building Standards and Architecture Policy. Its role is to ensure that the legislative and policy framework for the built environment supports sustainable economic growth; is responsive to national and local needs; promotes development which respects and enhances the environment in which it takes place; secures the construction of safe, healthy, efficient and sustainable buildings; and delivers high quality, well designed places for living, working and pursuing leisure activities.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

The Scottish Government is committed to creating a built environment which can be used by everyone,(including all six equalities groups) regardless of race, age, gender or disability. The accessibility of both the physical environment and the procedures used to deliver that environment to minority ethnic communities continue to be addressed whenever legislation or policy is developed or implemented.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

The primary information source on the experiences of, and issues relating to race equality have come out of recent consultations on changes to the planning system. We commissioned additional targeted activity for equalities and 'seldom heard' groups. Workshops were undertaken with race equalities groups (including Gypsies / Travellers) to support the modernisation of the planning system showed that such groups had particular concerns relating to access to information and a need to simplify language used in legislative and policy documents.

Strengthening the involvement of communities - in the planning of their area through the provision of accessible information on the built environment.

Partial EQIAs prepared. Full EqIAs to accompany secondary planning legislation.

Improve the accessibility of information on the built environment. An example would be the preparation of an easy read guide to the Scottish planning system made available in community languages on request.

Scottish Government to undertake within timetable for commencement of legislation.

The provision of user-friendly / jargon free information will support an equality of opportunity for all to be involved in the built environment.

It will help tackle inequalities by taking forward action to promote and advance equality.

Additionally, it will support public services being more responsive to local people's needs.

Public Service Reform Directorate ( PSRD)

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

To support Ministers in reforming public services and promoting dynamic and sustainable businesses, communities and social enterprises by:-

• Promoting fairer local taxation;
• Moving towards a smaller and more streamlined government;
• More efficient and effective seamless public services; and
• Developing a new relationship with local government and the wider public sector inc the Third Sector.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

SOAs - the Scottish Government's stated Purpose is to focus the Government and public services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth. The Concordat agreed between the SG and COSLA sets out the new relationship between SG and local government and accepts that although the SG will set policy direction, it will stand back from micro-managing service delivery. SOAs are a major part of the Concordat and free up local authorities and their partners to meet the varying local needs across Scotland. Local authorities and partners are expected to set out their contribution to each National Outcome.

Guidance on preparing SOAs (produced by SG, COSLA, the Improvement Service, SOLACE and Audit Scotland) will be issued in November 2008. The Guidance will set out that all parties to an SOA are aware that they are responsible for ensuring that their statutory requirements and obligations have been met. With regard to the public sector equality duties (including issues around race) further guidance will be issued shortly to councils, hopefully in November 2008.

We are shortly to publish an equality impact assessment on the SOA policy.

Best Value - equalities is one of the 10 characteristics covered by statutory guidance for local authorities and one of the 9 in non-statutory guidance for other public service organisations. We held 3 equalities events in Autumn 2007 to disseminate information and advice to public services bodies. Further work on raising awareness of the equalities characteristic under Best Value is unlikely in the short term.

Community Planning - equalities is covered in the statutory guidance for community planning and specific guidance on equalities was produced by CoSLA. The CP team will hold an event specifically on equalities in Single Outcome Agreement in the Winter.

Community Councils - issues arising from the consultation on the Model Community Council Scheme to take place in April will help to inform the approach to equalities within Community Councils. Advice on equalities, in the form of "best practice" guidance will be issued to Community Councils in due course.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

Limited evidence of differentiated experiences but some expectation that groups less familiar with the structures of Scotland may have difficulty accessing support for the third sector - particularly around business support.

Third Sector

Development of an Enterprising Third Sector

No

Research to be included in SG programme to identify potential barriers to minority ethnic individuals/third sector organisations. .

To be commissioned 2008-9. ASD and Third Sector division.

Specific barriers would then be addressed within Third Sector action plan.

Progressing actions would enable barriers which faced minority ethnic communities and third sector organisations to fully participate in an enterprising third sector. This would ultimately promote equality of opportunity and promote good relations between persons of different racial groups.

2, 7, 11 and 15

Abolition of Council Tax & Introduction of Local income tax

As policy development is ongoing, the EQIA is not yet complete. Subject to Ministerial decisions, we shall gather more information over time to inform policy. An EQIA will be published around the time of introduction of a Bill in June 2009.

Data on this subject is sparse. It will be difficult therefore to compare and contrast the existing and proposed systems, particularly given the related impacts of the council tax freeze and DWP's measures to improve Council Tax Benefit take up. While the policy intention is to promote fairness across Scotland, rather than for particular areas, the proposals are expected to have a positive impact on relative poverty. On the assumption that discrimination can create poverty, these proposals will have a beneficial effect.

A consequence of the proposed LIT system, and not linked to a particular division within the SG.

Local Government Division

Introducing fairer taxation will help to promote equality of opportunity and steps will be taken to ensure that the new system will be fair and non-discriminatory.

These proposals will contribute to the strategic objective of sharing the wealth of Scotland more fairly among its people and will see the majority of people in the lowest income deciles better off, in line with the 'Solidarity' golden rule outlined in the Government's Economic Strategy.

Transformational Technolgies Division ( TTD)

Digital Inclusion

Yes

Current strategy published under previous administration. This policy has been deprioritised within the Scottish Government and shift of emphasis towards Local Authorities and other service providers taking the lead.

However, currently reviewing approach - race equality would need to be re-evaluated along with other equality strands as part of any future work.

n/a

n/a

n/a

OneScotland Portal

Yes

The Portal is in Phase 1 development. On the advice of OCEA, citizen research has been deferred until launch of Phase 1 so that there is a product against which to test citizen research.

A decision on the future of the Portal is yet to be made however we have worked with OCEA to develop a 3 year programme of citizen research which would include focus groups with all equality groups.

To be agreed pending decision on future of Portal

Unknown at this stage - not currently aware of any specific issues of race equality.

As a minimum, ensuring that the Portal does not contribute to inequalities in society. Beyond that, by being responsive to focus groups we can improve the quality of public service delivery and address any inequalities that emerge.

Single Outcome Agreement ( SOAs)

Yes

The removal of ring fenced funding enables councils to direct funding to address particular race related inequalities identified in their geographical areas, using local information. We are collecting information to establish a baseline of how equalities are being treated in the initial SOAs. This will inform the approach to the second round of SOAs in 2009/10. We will issue guidance to help councils and CPPs reflect equalities issues appropriately in their SOAs.

We will encourage the processes contributing to SOA development to be impact assessed and equalities considered in prioritising policies outlined in the SOA. We will support Directors to work with councils and partners. ASD colleagues will also offer support directly to councils to enable them to increase local data.

PSD with support from ASD and Equality Unit.

The Scottish Government will further disaggregate information to inform policy development and delivery (such as disaggregating the national indicators.)

Equalities will be embedded in SOAs, by being addressed in the related policies and services and the consideration of local priorities. This will result in local authorities meeting their duties under equalities legislation thereby promoting equality of opportunity and eliminating discrimination at a local level.

7, 11,13,15 in particular but relevant across all strands.

Economic Strategy Directorate

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

To deliver the Government's Purpose through the implementation of the Government Economic Strategy across the Scottish Government.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

A key element of the Government Economic Strategy is equity, including ensuring that there are opportunities for all to contribute to Scotland's sustainable economic growth. This includes access to public services. Part of the work of this Directorate is to seek to ensure that this approach is delivered across the Scottish Government

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

The Strategy highlights that an equality impact assessment will be undertaken for each policy area across six strands, including race, to ensure that they are appropriate, to mitigate against any potentially negative impacts and to ensure our policies are robust and effective.

This will not be undertaken by this Directorate, but with policy areas who are taking forward specific elements of the Strategy.

Ensure implementation of the Government's Economic Strategy

No, The Strategy highlights that an equality impact assessment will be undertaken for each policy area across six strands, including race, to ensure that they are appropriate, to mitigate against any potential negative impacts and to ensure our policies are robust and effective.

This will not be undertaken by this Directorate, but with policy areas who are taking forward specific elements of the Strategy.

We will be proactive in informing all Directorates with responsibility for delivering the elements of the Government's Economic Strategy of the importance of the public sector equality duties and the need to promote race equality in delivering the Strategy.

ESD and ongoing

The GES aims to increase productivity. The elimination of unlawful discrimination can only increase the productivity of the labour market in terms of efficiency.

The GES includes an aim to ensure access to public services, including business support and transport, is enhanced across Scotland and that equity of provision is a central consideration in decision making.

A productive labour market which is accessible and inclusive to minority ethnic communities."

Public services including business support and transport which are accessible to everyone including minority ethnic communities and promote race equality.

The Strategy is focused on delivering the Government's Purpose which are supported by the delivery of the National Outcomes.

Scottish Development International

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

Encourage inward investment and help Scottish based companies develop international trade.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

SDI is committed to race equality both as an employer and as a service provider. Our commitment to equal opportunities goes beyond a desire to comply with legislation. As well as the legal and moral reasons for promoting equality, there is also a strong business case. It is essential to realising Scotland's full economic potential. For more information see SE Equality Scheme. http://www.scottish-enterprise.com/cs-eo

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

SDI will be carrying out Equality Impact Assessments on all its policies. Any race equality issues will be identified as part of this process. Generally we want to ensure that any opportunities to promote equality are identified and that there are no barriers to accessing services.

International Strategy Workshops

March 2009
SDI

Any actions will be identified through the Equality Impact Assessment process.

An action plan will be developed following the results of the equality Impact Assessment.

International Mentoring

Mar. 2009
SDI

As above

As above

Overseas Market Support

Mar. 2009
SDI

As above

As above

Exhibitions Missions and Learning Journeys

Mar 2009
SDI

As above

As above

International Readiness

Mar 2009
SDI

As above

As above

Climate Change and Water Industry

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

Climate Change and Water Industry Directorate is responsible for climate change policy, and for the ownership of Scottish Water.

This work contributes to the Government's 5 strategic objectives, and in particular, contributes towards a Greener Scotland and a Wealthier and Fairer Scotland.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

Climate Change and Water Industry Directorate is committed to promoting race equality. In particular the Directorate will ensure that EQIAs are prepared as part of all policy development, and engage with relevant stakeholders to help understand race equality issues.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

Certain statistics are collected on race and climate change-related issues (such as housing and transport). This includes the Scottish Household Survey ( http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/16002/4031). Much of the equalities related statistics are compiled in the High Level Summary of Equality Statistics: Key Trends for Scotland 2006 ( http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2006/11/20102424/0).

The Equality and Human Rights Commission was contacted three months prior to the consultation of the climate change Bill to discuss its contents.

The following organisations were notified about the Scottish Government consultation:

• Black & Ethnic Minority Infrastructure in Scotland
• Black Environment Network
• Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisations
• Equality and Human Rights Commission

The following organisations were invited to a Scottish Government consultation event:

• Equality and Human Rights Commission
• Black Environment Network
• Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisations

The following equalities question was asked in the formal consultation document:

What are the equalities implications of the measures in the proposals for the Scottish Climate Change Bill?

The following questions were asked at the Scottish Government consultation event:

What factors should be taken into account when setting the level of emissions budgets? - Are there particular sectors or groups of individuals that are likely to be disproportionally affected by the Bill? If so, who are they and what are the likely effects?

How can the Bill account for and mitigate any differences to create a more equitable (i.e. socially) framework e.g. in the setting of budgets etc?

Issues emerging from these statistics and the consultation responses will be highlighted in the EQIA.

Proposals for a Scottish Climate Change Bill (low relevance).

An EQIA is currently being carried out and will be completed by end of November 2008. This will outline evidence gathered and an analysis of this evidence.

Certain issues will be highlighted by the EQIA which may require future action.

The Bill is likely to include provision to take account of equal opportunities, including race, when carrying out functions under the Act. Parties responsible for carrying out functions under the Act, such as the Scottish Government, will have to take this duty into account. This will take place on an ongoing basis such as when formulating policies to meet emissions reduction targets or the setting of those targets.

Any issues and action highlighted in the EQIA are likely to make a small contribution to the national outcome:

"We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society."

Transport Directorate

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

The Directorate is responsible for the implementation of the National Transport Strategy, transport legislation, and policy development on issues such as sustainable transport and accessibility; local roads, bus, ferries, ports, aviation, cycling, walking, road safety and rural transport; as well as relations with the freight industry, British Waterways, the Department for Transport and the Regional Transport Partnerships.

It contributes towards a number of the Government's strategic outcomes, including the promotion of sustainable economic growth and strong and safer communities through a safe, integrated and efficient transport network.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

Through the National Transport Strategy and our general policy responsibilities we aim to achieve improved quality, accessibility, and affordability of public transport. By improving the transport choices available to people we improve accessibility to jobs, public services and a range of other activities. We aim to ensure that the public transport offering is inclusive and available to all people, taking account of the six strands of equality, including people from minority ethnic communities. We will work with Transport Stakeholders and many other bodies in doing so.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

We know from statistical data (from the Scottish Household Survey and the 2001 Census) that non-white groups, including Asian and black groups, are less likely to hold a driving licence than white groups. Access to a car is also lower for those households with a non-white head of household. Asian and black groups are also less likely, as are all non-white groups, to travel to work/education by car, and are, instead, more likely to use public transport, including both bus and train services or walk

Research, including that conducted as part of the process of developing the National Transport Strategy ( NTS) for Scotland (Scottish Executive 2006) and for the Women and Transport publication (Scottish Executive 2000), provides some information on the experience of using transport. Both studies identified the need for travel and transport information to be provided in a range of languages, to counter the lack of information for those for whom English is not a first language. The Women and Transport research also highlighted that women from ethnic minorities sometimes experience racism whilst using transport, and that this has implications for their personal safety and their experience of travelling.

Smarter Choices programme (includes Smarter Choices Smarter Places.)

To achieve increased proportions of active travel and public transport use through the use of techniques to change travel behaviour and associated demand management mechanisms

No. An EqIA is currently being progressed by the team with assistance from Analytical Services and Equality Team. Aim is to complete this by Dec 2008.

Initial stages of the EqIA have identified that further information is required regarding the impacts of this policy on Race as well as Religious belief.

The outcome of the EqIA will result in amendments to the Smart Measures Action Plan and will be undertaken by Transport Strategy Division.

Smart Choices aim to increase travel options. As the EQIA has not yet been fully completed, it is not possible to comment on the impact or outcome of the policy on race. The outcome of the programme is increase travel options for all including ethnic communities thereby promoting equality of opportunity. Increased usage of walking and cycle paths and increased patronage of public transport will address concerns about personal safety and give greater confidence to all users, including ethnic communities

National Outcomes: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15

Active Travel (includes Cycling Action Plan for Scotland)

No. There will be an Equality Impact Assessment of the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland during the consultation period in Dec 08 - Feb. 09

Dependent on the outcomes of the consultation with Equality Groups.

Jointly by SG Transport Strategy Division, Equality Unit and Cycling Scotland by end of February 2009.

The Cycling Action Plan for Scotland will promote and encourage all people including ethnic minority groups to consider cycling as a mode of travel for journeys under 5 miles.

National Outcomes: 6, 7, 10, 12, 14

Cleaner vehicles and alternative fuels consultation planned for 08/09

No. EQIA will be undertaken as part of the consultation process

Dependent on the outcomes of the consultation with Equality Groups.

Will be undertaken by Transport Strategy Division with assistance from Equality Unit and Transport Analysts.

We are adopting a technology neutral approach, so that our framework will support new technologies as they emerge. The framework will support new technologies for all.

National Outcomes: 2, 3, 6, 10, 12, 14, 15

Concessionary Fares - Scotland-wide Free Bus Travel Scheme for Older & Disabled People

Yes

A review of the scheme is currently underway. A number of equality groups, including the Racial Equality Councils, have been invited to comment on the current scheme and to offer comments on how it might be improved. These will be Considered within the current review.

The review is being undertaken by Transport Scotland and the Bus, Road Safety and Local Roads Policy Division of SG Transport Directorate.

The review provides an opportunity to identify any areas where the scheme has successfully met the three elements of the race duty and to address any perceived failings.

The review will look at how the present scheme is meeting the needs of particular groups of bus users, including minority ethnic people, and the implications of any extension to the scheme.

National Outcomes: 1, 2, 6, 7, 10, 12, 14.

Concessionary Fares - Scotland-wide Concessionary Travel Scheme for Young People

Yes

The scheme was introduced in January 2007 and designed to ensure young people can access public transport for work, education, training and socialising.

No EQIA has been undertaken since the scheme commenced.

The Scheme is scheduled to be to be reviewed in the near future.

An EQIA would be incorporated within any review.

Ensure that those eligible to utilise the scheme, including minority ethnic individuals, are aware of its benefits and that there are no barriers preventing them from applying.

National Outcomes: 1, 2, 3,4, ,6, 7, 12, 14

Sponsorship of Highland and Islands Airports Ltd ( HIAL)

Initial screening undertaken by Branch Head in Aviation Policy in November 2005

Through the Scottish Government's sponsorship of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd ( HIAL), and attendance at its Board meetings, we ensure that the company pays due regard to the statutory duty to promote race equality and takes a proactive approach in promoting it.

Aviation Policy/ HIAL

To ensure HIAL continues its good practice around promoting equality of opportunity, good relations between racial groups and eliminating racial discrimination,

National outcome: 15

Highlands and Islands Air Services - The Scottish Government procures, supports and manages 3 lifeline air services which are provided, under contract, by a private sector operator.

Initial screening undertaken by Branch Head in Aviation Policy in November 2005.

The Scottish Government will ensure that any future contractor will be required to provide the service without discrimination and with due regard to racial equality.

Aviation Policy. The Scottish Government to ask potential bidders to confirm they will have regard for, and take full account of, the requirements of the Race Relations Action (as amended).

There is no evidence to suggest that the air services currently operating are in breach of the legislation. The Scottish Government will ensure however that future lifeline air service contracts require the application of good practice and a proactive approach in relation to the promotion of racial equality and elimination of racial discrimination (if any exists).

National Outcome: 15, 10

Public & Rural Transport - Disability Transport Policy in using the Blue Badge Scheme - This policy aims to ensure that those with specific disabilities can continue to have access to their usual method of private transport.

No. An EQIA would be carried out as part of a general review of the blue badge scheme Changes were made to the scheme in England earlier this month, and we are keen to see how these impact there, in order that it might help inform a review here. An EQIA would be carried out as part of the review process by the PVSMACS & Mobility Team.

Any changes to the Badge Scheme will be consulted on widely with all key stakeholders. No public concern has been raised regarding this policy in relation to race equalities.As part of the review process, it may be that we consult with stakeholders in order to gain their views on how the scheme might best be promoted to minority ethnic groups.

A review of the Blue Badge Scheme would be carried out by the PVS, MACS & Mobility Team.

Without an EQIA, it is difficult to predict the changes that would emanate from revisions to the blue badge scheme. However, when an EQIA is carried out, it will allow us to ensure that the Blue Badge Scheme does not discriminate against people from minority ethnic backgrounds.

National Outcomes: 6, 7

Improve road safety. Scottish Government is committed to achieving a 40% reduction in all deaths and serious injuries on Scotland's roads by 2010, and a 50% reduction in those figures for children.

No. An EQIA needs to be carried out on RSS resources.

Initial screening of the issues. EQIA Due in 2008/09

RSS leaflets for drivers from abroad and migrant workers printed in Polish, French, Lithuanian and Russian

Scottish Government's Bus, Road Safety and Local Roads Policy Division and Road Safety Scotland

Outcome should be improved road safety for everyone including minority ethnic communities.

National Outcomes: 5, 6, 8, 11

Scottish Road Safety Strategy

Yes ongoing

The strategy will seek to implement actions to discover and address any racial inequalities in road safety.

Scottish Government's Bus. Road Safety and Local Roads Policy Division, together with delivery partners including Police and Local Authorities.

To be developed with strategy but ultimately we are seeking to improve road safety for everyone including minority ethnic communities.

National Outcomes: eg 5, 6, 8, 11

Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd ( HIAL) - nationalised industry policy

Initial screening undertaken by Branch Head in Aviation Policy in November 2005

HIAL has an equal opportunities policy and internal grievance procedures in place which staff can invoke. If evidence of discrimination, HIAL's disciplinary procedure would be triggered.

HIAL's Human Resources Director, Inverness Airport, Inverness

HIAL to ensure the elimination of any discrimination and the promotion of equal opportunity.

National Outcomes: 7, 15, 2

Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd ( HIAL) contract management

See No 3.

HIAL contracts with third party suppliers (airlines, ground handling and security) to require contractors to apply best practice in relation to promotion of racial equality and elimination of racial discrimination.

HIAL's Human Resources Director

HIAL to ensure the elimination of any discrimination and the promotion of equal opportunity.

National Outcomes: 7, 15, 2

Transport Scotland

Directorate or Agency Responsibilities.

Transport Scotland, established in January 2006, is the national transport agency for Scotland. Transport Scotland plays a key part in improving and expanding Scotland's public transport infrastructure and in promoting transport integration. The Agency is responsible for the rail and trunk road networks and oversees their operation and management. The Agency also supports the delivery of the programme of current and future major infrastructure projects for road and rail; has established and is running the Scotland-wide free bus scheme for older and disabled people; and oversees the provision of impartial travel information services and supports the increased provision of integrated tickets.

Statement of Directorate/Agency Commitment to the Promotion of Race Equality and good relations between people of different racial groups and how this helps to deliver Government's national purpose and outcomes.

Transport Scotland will continue to promote the advancement of racial equality by ensuring that our mainstream policy initiatives and programmes take cognisance of the needs of ethnic groups. We will ensure that people of any race can be involved in the development and implementation of policy and programme initiatives and that the delivery of such initiatives are targeted to ensure people of all races are aware of and can take full advantage of opportunities available. The key policy areas below have nearly all been developed with input and involvement from people through their appropriate representative groups irrespective of race.

What is known about the experiences of, and issues for, people of different ethnic groups affected by the Directorate/Agency Responsibilities and what are the issues relevant to relations between people of different racial/ethnic groups and to the promotion of race equality?

We know from statistical data that non-white groups, including Asian and black groups, are less likely to hold a driving license than white groups. Access to a car is also lower for those households with a non-white head of household. Asian and black groups are also less likely, as are all non-white groups, to travel to work/education by car, and are, instead, more likely to use public transport, including both bus and train services, or walk.

Research, including that conducted as part of the process of developing the National Transport Strategy ( NTS) for Scotland and for the Women and Transport publication (Scottish Executive 2000), provides some information on the experience of using transport. Both studies identified the need for travel and transport information to be provided in a range of languages, to counter the lack of information for those for whom English is not a first language. The Women and Transport research also highlighted that women from ethnic minorities sometimes experience racism whilst using transport, and that this has implications for their personal safety and their experience of travelling.

The Scottish Government has developed an Equality Impact Assessment ( EQIA) toolkit which can be used across 6 equality strands. The toolkit is supported by guidance and by a programme of briefing sessions, training and ongoing support from the Scottish Government's Equality Unit for individual impact assessments.

EQIA is being used in relation to policies and practices contributing to the strategic objective of improving and expanding Scotland's public transport infrastructure and in promoting transport integration.

We will consider all new policies, including revisions to existing policies, to establish whether racial equality impact assessment is necessary and relevant. In line with our toolkit, this will cover any policy which impacts on people.

Responsibility for considering priorities and ensuring that impact assessment is undertaken will be at Transport Scotland Board level. The Scottish Government's Equality Unit will continually look at how the impact assessment process can be improved and how staff from across directorates, including Transport Scotland, can best be supported.

Scottish Government Equal Opportunities policies, including:

Recruitment of TS staff

training and development policies for existing staff

Yes.

TS follow Scottish Government policy in a number of areas that recognises race equality.

We follow the Scottish Government's equal opportunity employer status in the area of recruitment, both external and internal including progression/promotion opportunities.

All TS staff have a mandatory diversity objective, as part of The Scottish Government's Performance Management system. We have run Diversity training sessions, available to all members of our staff.

TS Human Resources and Learning & Development

Ongoing

By adopting the range of Scottish Government equalities policies, TS will work towards the elimination of unlawful racial discrimination where it exists.

Scottish Government policies in recruitment will advance equality of opportunity for existing staff within the agency and for those applying to join through the recruitment process.

Providing diversity training for agency staff will promote good relations between persons of different racial groups by improving awareness and understanding of differences that may exist within the organisation.

Employment Opportunities

Inequalities

Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance

Yes

TS are responsible for developing and maintaining and using the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance ( STAG) for evaluating transport projects. The EQIA process has now been integrated into this process so that there is a recognised way of ensuring that equalities issues are addressed for all potential new transport investment.

TS Economics, Analysis and Research.

Ongoing

Incorporating Race Equality Impact Assessment into the STAG process will help TS identify where racial discrimination and reduced equality of opportunity may exist, and therefore measures can be taken to ensure that discrimination is addressed at the very beginning of any major transport project.

Research and Innovation

Environmental Impact

First Scotrail Franchise

Yes

TS are responsible for ensuring First Scotrail delivers on agreed franchise commitments. The franchise has recently been extended until 2014.

TS has completed an EQIA on the franchise extension. This identified how the franchise extension applies to minority ethnic groups.

Initial findings are that there are possible benefits linked to improved racial equality but that no proposals exist that are specifically targeted at minority ethnic groups at this stage. However further information in this area is required.

TS will consult with stakeholders, including those representing equality groups, so that any further issues can be identified. TS will complete a further EQIA once the analysis of consultation responses has been completed.

This will identify any actions to be taken forward to ensure we are meeting the RRAA.

TS Franchise Team

Initial EQIA completed 22 July 2008.

Further EQIA to be complete by April 2009

A First Scotrail service which meets the needs of all its customers including minority ethnic groups, does not discriminate against these groups and promotes equality of opportunity for people of different racial groups.

Public Services

Scottish Concessionary Fares Scheme for Disabled and Older People.

No

Ongoing

Complete in Jan 09)

TS administer this scheme on behalf of the Scottish Government. TS Concessionary Fares team will contribute to the EQIA on the scheme being undertaken by Transport Directorate.

TS will provide valuable input of its experience of delivering this national scheme on behalf of the Scottish Government. This may include experience relating to any racial equality issues that may have arisen since the scheme was introduced. The contribution from TS will ensure the EQIA will be as robust as possible.

Transport Directorate with input from TS Concessionary Fares Team.

Complete in January 2009

To identify where racial discrimination may exist within the existing national concessionary fares scheme.

The EQIA may identify where improvements can be made to promote and encourage minority ethnic groups to take up and utilise concessionary fares schemes where they are entitled.

Inequalities

Public Services

Traffic Scotland/Freight Scotland travel information websites

No

Complete by
April 2009.

TS will carry out an EQIA on these travel information services.

TS will be able to identify where racial discrimination or reduced equality of opportunity exists in the provision of these services and take forward actions to address this.

TS Trunk Roads Network Management

Complete in April 2009

Improved travel information for all people using the road and rail network. This may include proactive promotion of the travel information service specifically targeted at minority ethic groups if appropriate.

Public Services