Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease 2-litre (8-cup) shallow ovenproof dish.
Combine flour, sugar, butter, milk and dates in medium bowl. Spread mixture into dish.
To make caramel sauce; stir ingredients in medium heatproof jug until sugar is dissolved.
Pour caramel sauce slowly over back of spoon onto mixture in dish.
Bake pudding about 45 minutes or until centre is firm. Stand 5 minutes before serving.
