Hampshire's deputy PCC apologises for comments about women
Luke Stubbs suggested the percentage of women working in fire service departments in Hampshire should be reduced
Last updated 22nd Dec 2021
Hampshire's deputy police and crime commissioner has apologised over controversial comments he made about the number of women in the fire service.
Luke Stubbs spoke at a meeting of Hampshire's fire authority as the county’s fire service presented a report about improving equality for women and minorities.
But Mr Stubbs objected to the report, claiming that white men are not being given equal opportunities.
He said: "Government – and I think this is wrong – is bringing in quota programmes across the public sector, but only where it benefits women and minorities.
"In areas where it’s mostly men it has to be 50/50, but in areas where it’s mostly women there’s no change.
"Things like the control room have 84 per cent women and I would like assurance that steps are being taken to reduce that."
In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr Stubbs said: "Over the last week I have reflected on the comments I made.
"I sincerely wish to apologise for any harm or offence caused by the comments.
"I understand my comments have caused offence to members of the fire authority, firefighters, women’s networks and others.
"This was never my intention. I deplore all types of discrimination."
Fellow politicians were critical of Mr Stubbs’ views and women’s charities said his comments could deter women and minorities from applying to work for the fire service.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has made it clear that equality quotas do not exist.