Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, in which professions and sectors are (a) women and (b) men most over-represented; and what steps she is taking to encourage more equal gender representation in such areas.

According to the Labour Force Survey, women are most over-represented (80%+) in the childcare and nursing/caring professions, as well as in hairdressing and secretarial occupations. Men are most over-represented (90%+) in construction, engineering, electrical trades and transport.

Changing these patterns needs to start in childhood and the Government is working hard to ensure that boys and girls are able to consider a broad range of career opportunities, unhindered by out dated stereotypes. For example, the Government supports the Your Life campaign, which aims to double the proportion of undergraduate engineering and technology degrees taken by women to 30% by 2030. It also asks employers to take action to recruit and retain female talent.

To help make sure young people are able to consider the widest possible range of jobs the Government is setting up a new careers and enterprise company to support greater engagement between employers, and schools and colleges. Chaired by Christine Hodgson (Chair of Capgemini UK) it will be independent of government and will ensure young people get the inspiration and guidance they need to leave school or college ready to succeed in working life.