Women in STEM Jobs 2024-02-21
2024-02-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is about supporting women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics jobs.
What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help support women into science, technology, engineering and mathematics jobs.
Our priority is to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can pursue the exciting opportunities in STEM. That ambition fully extends to the hon. Members' constituents in Paisley and Renfrewshire North and in Livingston.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not specify concrete steps or commitments for supporting women in STEM jobs.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
New data from Times Higher Education shows that female science undergraduates are twice as likely to experience sexism compared to their peers on non-science courses. Many have reported being patronised or belittled by their male classmates, and this behaviour goes unchallenged.
New data reveals that female science undergraduates face higher rates of sexism than their peers. What steps is the Minister taking to address the culture of sexism in STEM so more women can pursue careers there?
A key priority for this Government is ensuring that everybody, regardless of background, faces no discrimination and can pursue an occupation in STEM. The number of STEM apprenticeship starts by women has increased by almost 8% this year, and since 2016 a total of almost £8 million has been awarded to 152 remarkable women role models.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer acknowledges the issue but does not address the specific ask about addressing the culture of sexism in STEM.
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
A vaccine firm in the MP's constituency, Valneva, does pioneering work and nearly half of its workforce are women. The company encourages women into STEM careers.
Would the Minister consider visiting Valneva in Livingston to meet the company and see their fantastic work firsthand?
Yes, and I commend the hon. Lady for having that very successful female-opportunity-giving firm in her constituency. I am in Scotland later this month and I will try to visit her.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The James Dyson Foundation in the MP's constituency has contributed £6 million to Malmesbury Primary School, promoting STEM education.
Will the Minister join me in thanking and congratulating Sir James Dyson on his recent contribution of £6 million to Malmesbury Primary School?
I warmly congratulate the Dyson Foundation on that. It is a fantastic example of philanthropy. We are consulting on establishing a national academy of mathematical science, backed by £6 million of funding. The consultation ends this Sunday and I hope many hon. Members will respond.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not address the specific ask about joining in congratulating Sir James Dyson.
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Improving diversity in STEM is important for future success, bringing new ways of thinking and a better understanding.
Can the Minister ensure that the Department for Education encourages people to think about STEM careers at the earliest possible level, particularly in primary schools?
My hon. Friend makes an important point about diversity in STEM starting at the earliest possible age. I will of course talk to my colleagues in the Department for Education about doing precisely that.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer acknowledges the importance but does not provide a specific commitment or timeline.
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
A number of the MP's constituents working in STEM areas have expressed concerns about their research partners currently in Gaza.
Can the Minister confirm whether any discussions have taken place with colleagues at the Home Office about providing emergency visas to female STEM academics who are collaborating with UK partners?
I am not aware of that, but I will happily ask the question of Home Office colleagues and write to the hon. Lady.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not confirm discussions have taken place but promises to inquire with Home Office colleagues.
Response accuracy