Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Armed Forces Recruitment Service contract contains diversity targets.

Defence remains committed to attracting, recruiting, retaining and developing the best talent from the broadest diversity of thought, skills, and backgrounds, to ensure our workforce is reflective of today’s society and able to meet current and future security threats.

The Armed Forces Recruiting Service (AFRS) will provide a streamlined, single-entry point for prospective recruits, with the aim of recruiting from the broadest spectrum of society to attract the best talent into the Armed Forces.

Under the AFRS contract, Serco, as the supplier, is required to comply with the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) Diversity and Inclusion policy. The contract also includes Annual Mandated Performance Indicators focused on enhancing equality and diversity within the workforce.

As part of the broader Defence Diversity and Inclusion strategy 2018-2030, Levels of Ambition (LOA) exist to guide efforts in creating a more inclusive workplace and are key to attracting and retaining the best talent from across society. It is important to note that the AFRS contract remains cognisant of MOD LOA; however, there is a clear distinction between LOA and contractual diversity targets.