Fewer Women Hold Positions Of Power And Influence

'Sex and Power', the Equality and Human Rights Commission's annual report looking at women in top positions of power and influence across the public and private sectors, suggests a worrying trend of reversal or stalled progress - with few significant increases.

Now in its fifth year, the index this year indicates fewer women hold top posts in 12 of the 25 categories. In another 5 categories, the number of women remains unchanged since 2007's index. Women's representation has increased in just 8 areas.

There are fewer women MPs in Westminster, where they make up just 19.3%of all MPs. Women's representation among FTSE 100 directors has improved slightly from 10.4% to 11.0%.

This year's report, which traditionally estimates the number of years at the present rate of progress it will take for women to achieve equality in key areas, indicates that compared to previous year's predictions it will now take 15 years longer for women to achieve equal status at senior levels in the judiciary, and women directors in FTSE 100 companies could be waiting in the wings a further 8 years.

Nicola Brewer, the Chief Executive of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: "Young women's aspiration is in danger of giving way to frustration. Many of them are now excelling at school and are achieving great things in higher education. And they are keen to balance a family with a rewarding career. But workplaces forged in an era of 'stay at home mums' and 'breadwinner dads' are putting too many barriers in the way - resulting in an avoidable loss of talent at the top.

"We always speak of a glass ceiling. These figures reveal that in some cases it appears to be made of reinforced concrete. We need radical change to support those who are doing great work and help those who want to work better and release talent."

(CD/KMcA)