Improving BAME recruitment in the House of Commons

An advisory group led by Mr Speaker has looked into the recruitment and retention of BAME staff within the House of Commons workforce. The advisory group has investigated how best to engage and attract talented BAME candidates to join the House of Commons and Parliamentary Digital Service, as well as exploring how to support, promote, develop and retain the existing talented BAME members of staff.

The event was also an opportunity to formally thank the organisations and individuals who hosted the advisory group or came to the House to share their experiences. This work is  part of the commitment by the House of Commons to increase diversity all levels of the organisation. The event was attended by members of the advisory group as well as key external stakeholders who had contributed to the work.

The advisory group was made up of House of Commons officials as well as the following Members:

• Rt Hon John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons, Chair
• Helen Grant MP
• Seema Malhotra MP
• Lord Ouseley
• Baroness Lawrence

The work stems from the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2015-18.

Rt Hon John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons said:

“One of my key priorities as Speaker of the House of Commons has been to increase the diversity of staff and to create a more inclusive workplace. While we have taken important steps already, there is still much to be done. The work of this advisory group will be vital in ensuring that the change we require is supported throughout the organisation, and I look forward to seeing to results of this vital work.”

The House of Commons is keen to recruit people from all backgrounds. Current vacancies can be viewed online.