BSB consults on diversity action plan

The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has launched a consultation into its Equality and Diversity Action Plan.

The action plan sets outs the BSB’s proposed guidelines for promoting equality and diversity within the bar, including trying to get a more diverse cross-section of society to join as barristers.

The plan identifies three core objectives, including working towards diversity at entry level and throughout the profession.

Alongside this the BSB is looking to conduct its regulatory activities fairly and in accordance with anti-discrimination good practice.

The new consultation, which closes on 4 January 2008, is inviting interested parties to provide their opinion as to whether the BSB’s plan for achieving these objectives is appropriate and feasible.

Ruth Evans, chair of the BSB, said that the bar plays an essential role in the administration of justice

“It has a responsibility to ensure it is offering equality of access to the profession to all in the diverse communities it serves and to ensuring its services are capable of meeting the needs of all in society,” she said.