BSB launches diversity review

The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has ordered an external review of its professional conduct complaints processes after discovering that black and minority ethnic (BME) barristers were overrepresented in the complaints system.

A BSB internal report found that BME barristers are currently more likely than white barristers to have external complaints referred to disciplinary action. BME barristers were also more likely than white barristers to have complaints upheld following a referral to disciplinary action. In addition, male barristers were found to be the subject of a disproportionate number of internal complaints in comparison to the proportion of males comprising barristers at the Bar, but the differences in gender representation in the complaints process were not as great as those measured by ethnicity.

The external review will be conducted by the independent agency Inclusive Employers between February and April and the report, along with recommendations for further action, is due in September 2013. 

Dr Vanessa Davies, the BSB's director, said; "Our complaints statistics suggested that some groups had more complaints made against them in the system. While the findings of our report are clear, the causes of the over-representation are not. The first step is to take a fresh look internally at our complaints processes to ensure there is no unconscious bias operating. At a later date, we may need to consider whether there are external factors too, but the next steps will be clearer once this review is completed. The board is keen to ensure there is no possibility of unequal treatment, which is why we have commissioned a closer methodical investigation."