BITC’s statement about the Government’s consultation on equal pay

Today, the Cabinet Office has released a new consultation focused on how the government can update the current equal pay system, so that it works for everyone. Insights from the release of the pay discrimination-related findings from the Call for Evidence on the Equality Law show that the current system is no longer fit for purpose. The consultation will give key stakeholders an opportunity to have their say in how it can be fixed.

Commenting on the consultation, Sandra Kerr CBE, Race Equality Director at Business in the Community, said:

Business in the Community (BITC) welcomes this consultation as a constructive opportunity to reset the balance on equal pay. Fair pay is not just a nice thing to do for employees; it is essential and has proven benefits for individuals and businesses. With the cost of living remaining high, fair pay is essential so that no one is left behind. Evidence also shows that people who feel they are paid fairly are significantly more positive about their work, boosting employee engagement and satisfaction.
 
Fairness, transparency, and accountability are more than just HR buzzwords; they are the bedrock of what helps businesses attract and retain vital talent by building inclusive workplaces. As one of the co-conveners of the Race Equity in Employment Taskforce, chaired by Andy Burnham, BITC is delighted that the Government is taking the step in closing the ethnicity pay gap. The Taskforce’s recent report, No Talent Wasted, highlights the importance of closing the ethnicity pay gap for individuals, businesses, and the wider UK economy, with BITC analysis showing that closing the ethnicity pay and participation gaps could benefit the UK economy by £37 billion a year.
 
We are ready to get involved with this consultation and champion an approach that delivers for businesses of any size.

The consultation closes on 27 October. You can respond here.

ENDS

Notes to editor

For further information, please contact Polly Dacam, Senior Public Affairs and Media Officer, on 020 7566 6638.

About Business in the Community

Business in the Community (BITC) champions responsible business as essential for long term economic growth and resilience.   
 
It is the UK’s leading responsible business network, working with companies of all sizes to tackle society’s most pressing challenges from climate change and place-based community regeneration to inequality, workplace wellbeing, and inclusive growth.  
  
Founded by His Majesty King Charles III in 1982, BITC has over four decades of experience in engaging business and delivering measurable impact in both business and in communities through evidence-based interventions. 

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