The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is to set out the standards of equality and diversity to which it expects chambers it instructs to adhere, the Gazette has learned.

The CPS and Bar Council are hammering out a new 'equality and diversity expectations' statement, although it is as yet unclear how compulsory it will be.


It will cover issues including the diversity of chambers, their recruitment process and training provision, pupillage and complaints handling. All sets will also be expected to have their own diversity policy in place.


The CPS spends approximately £130 million of its £580 million budget on external legal services.


Seamus Taylor, CPS director of equality and diversity, said: 'The CPS has a long-standing commitment to, and increasing positive reputation in respect of, equality and diversity. As a public body, we also have a duty to promote race equality across our activities, including where relevant when we secure external services.


'Similar positive duties are now planned in respect of disability and gender equality.'


A Bar Council spokesman said it supported the move so as to ensure chambers have a diversity policy.


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