PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Political Parties: Equality (22 November 2018)

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, pursuant to the Answer of 13 November 2018 to Question 188804 on Equality Act 2010, what the timeframe is for the implement Section 106 of the Equality Act 2010.

Asked by:
Dr Rosena Allin-Khan (Labour)

We are looking closely at the issues that limit diverse representation, particularly for those facing multiple barriers to participation. Ultimately, parties are responsible for selecting candidates and ensuring they are fielded in winnable seats.

Political parties have different challenges to face to improve the diversity of their candidates. Many political parties already publish some candidate diversity data voluntarily.

Our centenary fund is supporting projects in England to engage more women in politics. In addition, in May 2018 we announced a £250,000 interim fund to support disabled candidates, primarily for the forthcoming English local elections in 2019.

We continue to keep section 106 under review, as we do with other uncommenced provisions in the Equality Act 2010.

Answered by:
Victoria Atkins (Conservative)
3 December 2018