PRESS RELEASES

 

20th December 2005

 

Women In Private Sector Paid 45% Less Than Men, Says Equality Watchdog

 

The Equal Opportunities Commission has found that women working in the private sector are paid 45% less per hour than their full-time male colleagues. The average hourly rate for male full-timers is £13.75, while women working full-time average £10.65 and part-timers get £7.60.

  

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Tooting, Stephanie Dearden said:-

 

"In the 21st century every woman should expect to receive the same salary as male colleagues with identical responsibilities. Equal pay audits would highlight inequalities in pay, gender balances and promotions. The Government must introduce a Code of Practice Against Discrimination as a matter of urgency and encourage all employers to undertake equal pay audits".

 

ENDS

 

  Stephanie Dearden

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Tooting

 

Notes to editors

 

1. More: http://money.guardian.co.uk/news_/story/0,1456,1671124,00.html
2. If you would like to arrange an interview with Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Tooting Stephanie Dearden then please call 020-7771-2551 or 07985-649807 or 07754 583090
3. Official photographs here http://www.stephaniedearden.org/smd_mugs/index.htm