The new director of private sector at the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) this week slammed the lack of diversity in the legal profession and threatened an investigation if the situation does not improve.

Brenda Stern, who was seconded to the post from City firm Berwin Leighton Paisner in October, said there were serious problems with entry into the profession, as well as retention.


She said: 'I have been in my post at the CRE for six weeks now and I have realised what a dismal state the profession is in, in terms of diversity. I will be monitoring the situation for three months. We will then report and, if need be, we will launch an investigation.


'We will be looking at recruitment of trainees, partners and associates. Entry to the profession through the legal practice course and training is a particular concern.'


She added: 'We tend to think that diversity is only an issue for the magic circle firms. But it is critical that we realise it must be taken on board by every firm - it should be part of mainstream practice. I would encourage firms to come to us; we will give you advice where we can, but it is time to get real about this problem and start taking some real action.'


Ms Stern made the remarks at the launch of a new diversity initiative by City firm Linklaters in conjunction with training organisation Global Graduates. Some 33 City firms signed up to a public declaration demonstrating their commitment to diversity issues.