03 July 2008, 14:42 PM
  • Responding to the Government's Equality Bill, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has announced that UK retailers have a more diverse workforce than many other business sectors.

The bill was announced in the Labour party’s 2005 manifesto, but its key components were only revealed last week. Its aim is to combat workplace discrimination by closing the gender pay gap and provide equal opportunities for ethnic minorities and disabled people.

BRC chief, Stephen Robertson, says, “I am proud of the retail industry’s record on reflecting all parts of the population in its workforce and on developing individuals and nurturing talent. There is nearly three million jobs in UK retailing. The competitive battle to attract the best people means retailers strive to offer attractive deals to the widest possible pool of talent.”

Mr Robertson also believes the absence from the bill of a legal requirement for full equal pay audits is very sensible and will allow each employer to continue to decide how to manage fairness in the way most appropriate for their business. He explains, “Retail is a sector where pay gaps are not typically found. Many of our members audit already, but requiring businesses to undertake the Government’s version, rather than one suitable for them, would be a major headache.”

In a statement, the BRC added that companies should be encouraged to devise recruitment and retention policies, which embrace diversity and nurture talent.