Introduction

I have been impressed by the readiness of staff to share their views
and experiences openly. The key findings and recommendations of
this Report are based on the contributions of those working at all
levels in the Agencies. I am grateful to all those who have contributed
to this work for taking the time to engage with this process.

“[The Agencies] should
reflect the population
they serve but, most
importantly, they
cannot fulfil their
mandate without
drawing on the broad
range of talent and
skills that a diverse
workforce can offer.”

“I hope that this Report
will galvanise support
for, and lead to further
concerted efforts to
create, a more gender
diverse workforce in
the Agencies.”

I hope that this Report will galvanise support for, and lead to further
concerted efforts to create, a more gender diverse workforce in the
Agencies. I have seen progress during the time I have been examining
these issues and I have highlighted specific examples in this Report.
I have also highlighted those areas where improvement is needed:
there is always room for improvement.
I believe that there is a strong business imperative for greater diversity
in the Agencies. They should reflect the population they serve but,
most importantly, they cannot fulfil their mandate without drawing
on the broad range of talent and skills that a diverse workforce can
offer. We must ensure that the Agencies are investing in the right
skills and capabilities, and that they are not losing talented people
unnecessarily due to unconscious bias or unnecessary barriers.
I personally want women to be attracted to a career in intelligence and
to feel there is the prospect of real advancement. While highlighting
issues for the Agencies to address, this work is ultimately intended to
strengthen the Agencies. I applaud the vital work that the Agencies
undertake to safeguard our national interests. They work in difficult,
ever-changing and sometimes dangerous circumstances to try to
prevent the considerable threats that exist against our country,
our people and our society from becoming a reality. They should
be praised for the dedication, bravery and professionalism they
demonstrate.

The Rt. Hon. Hazel Blears, MP

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