Written question asked by Richard Holden (Conservative) on Monday, 22 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. It was answered by Calvin Bailey (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 July 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Armed Forces: Recruitment

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 19 June 2026 to Question 8931, whether a candidate's protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 are taken into account when making military (a) appointments and (b) promotions.

Answer: Military appointments and promotions are made in accordance with Joint Service Policy (JSP) and are based on individual merit, relevant experience and evidence of suitability, with decisions informed by historic performance and experience. Candidate documentation used in the selection process does not reference an individual’s protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. Where employer input is sought on candidate suitability, JSP 755 is clear that “no reference should be made on protected characteristics unless there is a justifiable business requirement.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 11755
Session: 2026-27
Related items: Armed Forces: Recruitment
Friday, 19 June 2026
Written questions
House of Commons; Armed Forces: Recruitment
Friday, 24 July 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Armed forces Career development Recruitment
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk