Social Mobility 2022-02-23
2022-02-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over regional disparities that hinder social mobility in the UK.
What steps are being taken to improve social mobility, given the publication of the levelling-up White Paper which aims to address regional disparities?
The Government believes circumstances at birth should not dictate life outcomes. The levelling-up White Paper aims to address regional disparities, a key driver of social mobility across the UK. The paper outlines plans to increase opportunities and level up the country.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific actions or measures but referenced the levelling-up White Paper generally.
Referred To Broad Policy Documents Without Specifics
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There is a lack of data on social background in the civil service's most recent diversity report, raising concerns about inclusivity and social mobility.
Will my hon. Friend look into collecting data on social background within the civil service to assess its openness towards all backgrounds?
Social background is not a protected characteristic, but the civil service has begun implementing socio-economic background measures since 2018. Declaration rates are insufficient for publication; however, efforts are being made to increase these for next year's statistics.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to collecting data but acknowledged ongoing efforts and future intentions.
Acknowledged Limitations In Current Data Collection
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government's key education investment area will benefit the constituency of Keighley, aiming to improve life chances for young people.
How will my hon. Friend's Department ensure that increasing social mobility is central to plans and the levelling-up White Paper in transforming opportunities for young people across Keighley?
My Department is investing in areas with weakest educational attainment, aiding opportunity spread. Equality has an important role; officials work closely with Departments to encourage focused and evidence-based action.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify concrete plans but referenced equality's importance and ongoing efforts.
Emphasised Equality'S Significance Without Detailing Specific Actions
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns over the impact of proposed tuition fee funding criteria on poorer families' access to higher education.
Does the Minister appreciate that some are worried about proposals requiring certain grades for access to tuition fee funding, which may disproportionately affect poorer families?
The Department for Education has done an equalities impact assessment on any new policies. These assessments ensure that at-risk individuals are not prevented from pursuing education.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address specific concerns about poorer families but referenced equality impact assessments in general.
Referred To General Impact Assessment Without Addressing Specific Worries
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Children from less affluent families are significantly more likely to suffer brain injuries in early childhood and adolescence, impacting their life opportunities.
What will the Government do about higher rates of serious brain injury among children from poorer backgrounds compared to wealthier ones?
Unfortunately, no specific information is available on this topic. However, I will ensure that the relevant Minister writes to the hon. Member with appropriate details.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide any concrete action or plan but promised a written response from another Minister.
Promised Future Correspondence Without Addressing Current Concerns
Response accuracy