§ 25. David TaylorTo ask the Minister for Women what discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the encouragement of a greater level of entry by women into relevant academic areas to facilitate more representative gender balance in key professional areas; and if she will make a statement. [189168]
§ Jacqui SmithWe are delighted that women are excelling and are now attaining more degrees than ever before. In 1993, 8 per cent. of women held degrees. By 2002, this had increased to 14 per cent. Around 50 per cent. of all students on law, accountancy and medicine undergraduate courses are female. However, we must not get complacent. Occupational segregation still exists. Women are still under-represented in certain sectors and senior positions. Women represent less than 25 per cent. of all managers and senior executives, and only 15 per cent. of those working in science, engineering and technology jobs. That is why earlier today my right hon. Friend was delighted to launch a new resource centre in Bradford, dedicated to promoting women in science, engineering and technology.