95% of the workforce is white, which is approximately the same as in the UK workforce as a whole (94%). The proportion of Asian and Black employees in this sector is as high as in the whole economy, with 3% Asian and 2% Black employees. 1% of the workforce has a mixed or other ethnic background, which is slightly less than in the whole economy.

The representation of civil servants from an ethnic minority is highest in London with 19.8%. One in five staff from ethnic minorities earn over £20,000 compared with one in three white staff, which reflects the difference in distribution of levels of responsibility. 

The Race Relations (Amendment) Act (2000) has placed a statutory requirement on local governments to tackle racial discrimination and promote equality. Ethnic diversity within the workforce is a key element of new strategies, for example click here for initial guidance for local authorities deriving from the Stephen Lawrence inquiry and the Home Secretary’s action plan.

For further reports see police and community justice - Race and equality reports.

Source: SSDA 2004, ORC International 2001 and CGNTO 2001a

N.B. Available date includes the defence sector statistics and is based on the Labour Force Survey.