LAWFUEL – The Law Newswire – Britain’s Justice minister Bridget Prentice has implored law firms to not pigeonhole their female or ethnic minority lawyers, The Lawyer reports.
Speaking today at the second annual diversity conference organised by The Lawyer, Prentice told the audience that, although firms had improved their diversity statistics, firms often channelled female and ethnic minority lawyers into family or immigration work rather than really judging each individual’s strengths and preferences.
She said: “Firms should recognise the individual qualities of each person and use them to the best effect. Diversity is about widening the pool of new talent and seeking the best candidates for different sections of the law.”
Firms also have some way to go in becoming transparent about their diversity statistics, said Prentice. “People like dealing with companies that demonstrate their commitment to equality and diversity. Legal firms could benefit from making their stand on this public.”
