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Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: Equality

Asked by Mike WoodConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 20602

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to the FCDO Annual Report and Accounts 2025-26, HC521, of 16 July 2026, page 40, in what ways is diversity and inclusion being embedded on the improved employee experience and in what policies and processes is it being applied.

Answered by Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Information on Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) expenditure relating to the Diversity and Inclusion review will be included in the Cabinet Office's annual publication which covers such spending across government. The review was commissioned to inform internal policy development and is not intended for publication.

Diversity and inclusion are being embedded through the FCDO's mainstream people policies and decision-making processes, rather than treated as a standalone activity. This is with the express aim of improving organisational effectiveness and putting the best talent available in service of British interests. That includes- for example - ensuring FCDO staff have transparent access to opportunities, consistent decision-making for recruitment, development and progression, and experience improved management practice overall.

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