Women and Whitehall: how did Whitehall change after 1979 – and what does that mean for its future?

Whitehall is much more diverse now than in 1979.  But it still faces challenges in achieving better representation of women, especially at the top of the Civil Service, as well as in its broader culture.  This event explored what it was like to be a woman working in Whitehall over the last thirty-five years and asked how Whitehall’s culture has changed as it has become more diverse.

Commencing with a panel discussion involving three distinguished former officials:  Alice Perkins (Director General, Cabinet Office, 2001-2005), Dame Valerie Strachan (Chair of the Board, Customs & Excise, 1993-2000), and Lord O’Donnell (Cabinet Secretary, 2005-2011).  Followed by an opportunity for Q&A. The event is chaired by Institute for Government Programme Director Jill Rutter.

The Women and Whitehall event is part of our research into how the people of Whitehall, and their management, have changed over the last 35 years. It is part of the Contemporary History of Whitehall project, a joint initiative between the Institute for Government and King’s College London, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.  It explores the full spectrum of Whitehall’s recent history, shedding light on developments within and across departments, informing both students and current officials.