Commission looks into job segregation

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) is to carry out a formal investigation into job segregation. Using powers under Section 53(1) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975, it will look at the experience of young people in making career choices and the kind of advice and support available.

The investigation will focus on modern apprenticeships in construction, plumbing, engineering, ICT and childcare.

EOC chair Julie Mellor, said: "There are severe shortages of skilled staff in all the sectors we are focusing on, which is hardly surprising if the pool they are drawing from only includes half the population."