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Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the Civil Service

14 May 2024

Proposing MP
Tatton
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Cabinet Office

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The Government is addressing the issue of proportionate and efficient spending on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) within the Civil Service.

Action Requested

The Cabinet Office is publishing guidance to end all external EDI spending unless authorised by Ministers, centralise EDI guidance for departments, regulate learning through the Civil Service Learning Framework, consolidate standalone EDI roles into HR teams, and standardise diversity content in job adverts. Additionally, new guidelines on political impartiality related to EDI are being introduced.

Key Facts

  • Total EDI expenditure across 95 Civil Service organisations was £27.1 million for the 2022-23 financial year.
  • The Inclusion at Work Panel's March 2024 report found that many employers lack an evidence base and knowledge of EDI initiative impacts.
  • Support for disability will be excluded from changes to ensure continued assistance for disabled staff.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy