During a House of Commons discussion relating to the e-petition on dress codes and high heels in the workplace, the Government indicated that it is developing guidance on dress standards at work. In a statement (see columns 210 to 212) Caroline Dinenage, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, said that she was grateful for the Women and Equalities Committee’s report on high heels and workplace dress codes, which is clearly concerning, and which highlights both unacceptable behaviour and the persistent challenges faced by some women in the workplace. She stated that the Government are clear that the law to deal with such cases of discrimination is adequate, but recognises that some employers lack awareness of the law or even choose to flout it. The Government are therefore developing guidance for employers, working closely with Acas, the EHRC and the H&SE, in response to the recommendations in the Committees’ report.

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