18 December 2006 - Appointment of new Disability Rights Commissioner
The Right Honourable John Hutton, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, today announced the appointment of Timothy Escudier as a Disability Rights Commissioner, following the death of Commissioner Michael Burton in September.
The Commission’s role includes working to eliminate discrimination against and promote equal opportunities for disabled people; promoting good practice, providing information and advice about the Disability Discrimination Act; and advising Government on a range of policy issues.
Mr Escudier’s appointment is for a fixed period from 10 December 2006 until the dissolution of the Disability Rights Commission with the establishment of the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.
The appointment has been made in accordance with the principles of the Commissioner for Public Appointments Code of Practice for Appointments to Public Bodies.
John Hutton said:
“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Timothy Escudier to the Disability Rights Commission. As we continue to implement the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 and move towards the establishment of the Commission for Equality and Human Rights, it is crucial that the DRC continues to be steered by an influential Board.
“Mr Escudier’s appointment brings to the Commission a wealth of business and financial management experience in this important transition period.”
The Commission’s Chair, Bert Massie, said:
“Today’s announcement is excellent news for the DRC. Mr Escudier’s appointment means that the Commission will continue to have the right balance of skills and experience as we build on our achievements.
“I very much look forward to working with Mr Escudier as we push ahead with our programme of activities to increase the participation of disabled people in all aspects of society, and prepare to hand over our disability agenda to the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.”
Notes to editors
- The DRC is an independent body set up by statute and funded by Government. Following Mr Escudier’s appointment there are 14 Commissioners, including the Chairman. The maximum number permitted under the DRC Act is 15.
- Biography: Mr Escudier was Managing Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa, for Fujitsu Services and Board Director Fujitsu Services Overseas Ltd from April 2002 until December 2005, and concurrently non-Executive Director and Vice Chairman at Zensar Technologies Ltd where he was also the Director on the Audit and Remuneration Boards. His prior career included Board level appointments for ICL/Fujitsu Services and Transys Ltd; and an appointment as Worldwide Vice President of the Financial Services Division of Unisys Corporation.
- All appointments are made on merit. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity (if any declared) to be made public. Mr Escudier has not declared any political activity.
- Commissioners contribute to Commission and ad hoc working group meetings which determine the DRC’s overall policy; champion the work of the DRC by speaking and representing the Commission at conferences and other events; and network extensively with the DRC’s key stakeholders.
- Commissioner appointments are part-time and Commissioners are paid a fee, currently £154 for each day spent on Commission business, as well as travel and other expenses.
- Mr Escudier holds no other Ministerial appointments.
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