Responding to the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report released today, Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said:

"As the commission’s report highlights, issues of racism are very complex, but it also states that ‘overt and outright’ racism persists in the UK. Therefore, it’s crucial that employers take steps to ensure there is racial equality in their workplaces and tackle discrimination where it exists.

“This includes ensuring that progression and pay is fair regardless of people’s race, other personal characteristics or background, which is why we’re disappointed that the commission has not gone further and recommended mandatory ethnicity pay reporting and greater transparency. Racial equality at work is not just about participation in employment but also about progression into more senior roles. Pay reporting can highlight organisations and sectors where this is not happening, providing key information for employers on where they need to focus attention.

“We will work with the Government to encourage organisations to take up voluntary reporting and will continue to provide support for employers on how they can analyse and report on their ethnicity data as part of developing effective strategies and practices to advance workplace equality.

“The focus in the report on advancing fairness and evidence-based practices in the workplace is welcomed. We look forward to working with the Government to help develop guidance on the people management and development approaches that are key to improving inclusion and diversity at work.” 

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