Lanark and Hamilton East MP Angela Crawley has criticised the UK Government after every department was removed from Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers 2023.

As recently as 2020, three government departments were included on the list but none now meet the standards for inclusion.

This comes after Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch ordered government departments to withdraw from the diversity champions scheme run by Stonewall.

The Scottish Government’s efforts to champion diversity and inclusion has been recognised by the charity and a number of other public bodies remain on the list including local councils and NHS trusts.

Ms Crawley said the government’s decision to cut ties with Stonewall’s diversity champions’ scheme was a “dereliction of their duty” to the LGBT+ community.

As a result, Ms Crawley has tabled an Early Day Motion at Westminster which challenges the UK Government’s stance and praises the devolved nations for their work.

Commenting, Lanark and Hamilton East MP Angela Crawley said:

“It is extremely disappointing that the UK Government have decided to end their relationship with Stonewall and abandon their support for LGBT+ individuals.

“Being included in the top employers list should be a source of pride for any organisation and, like the Scottish and Welsh Governments, the UK Government should strive to be an inclusive and welcoming employer.

“It is simply not good enough that not one UK Government department made the list as every one has fallen below the standards required.

“Allowing this reduction in standards is a dereliction of their duty to the LGBT+ community. Instead, the government should be focused on upholding the highest standards in workplace diversity and setting an example to all UK employers.”