Corporate Boards (Diversity)

Debate between Chuka Umunna and Michelle Donelan

Wednesday 28th October 2015 Commons Chamber

[Michelle Donelan (Chippenham) (Con)]

I, too, commend the hon. Gentleman on the brilliant choice of topic for debate. Is there not a danger of examining the symptoms rather than the cause here, which could mean that we end up with the less competent on boards? Should we not be trying to inspire and encourage a range of people on to boards by targeting education and looking at the beginning of the process, which explains why these people are not succeeding in getting to that higher level?

[Mr Umunna]

I am afraid that there are simply too many people out there with the talent and ability who are not being appointed. That is the reality of the situation in 2015.