WIREDGOV

The House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee recently (29 October 2021) published their Report approving the Government's preferred candidate Katharine Birbalsingh CBE as the new Chair of the Social Mobility Commission (SMC).

• Read the report: Appointment of the Chair of the Social Mobility Commission:Katharine Birbalsingh CBE
• Women and Equalities Committee

The Report follows the Committee's pre-appointment hearing with Ms Birbalsingh, which took place on Wednesday 20 October. Concluding her to be a 'suitable candidate for the role' the Committee note Ms Birbalsingh's decades of experience in state-sector education and 'track record of enhancing the life chances of disadvantaged young people through education'.  

The Report calls on the Minister for Women and Equalities to appoint a wide range of additional SMC commissioners 'without delay'. Noting that the newly appointed Chair has a 'narrow field of experience', the Committee recommend that these commissioners herald from a diverse range of backgrounds, knowledge and experience, across all relevant areas of social policy and sectors of the economy. 

Chair's comment  

Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee, recently said: 

"The Social Mobility Commission is a vital institution, and one that will be instrumental in meeting the Government's objective of levelling up. The new Chair will have to work collaboratively with experts from a wide range of backgrounds and experience, and draw on the wealth of knowledge and ideas brought by diversity and discussion.  

"I urge the Women and Equalities Minister to appoint the remaining Commissioners as soon as possible, so that the Commission can commence its valuable work." 

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees