Stuart Anderson MP has called on Security Ministers to make Intelligence Internships "genuinely inclusive", after it emerged that 96% of constituents in South Shropshire are not eligible to apply for the programmes offered by MI5, MI6, and GCHQ.
The Summer Intelligence Internships are billed as “first steps towards an exciting full-time career”. The job advert adds that: interns will not “just be sitting on the sidelines – this is your opportunity to get unique access to our operations, gain experience, and make key contributions to real projects”
Yet, the online application information requires applicants to be from a “a Black, Asian, mixed heritage or ethnic minority background.” In his letter to the Minister for Security, Stuart said that he wants to "ensure people of all ages can access high-quality training and education opportunities as well as personalised careers advice that addresses skills gaps, boosts productivity, and delivers sustainable economies and vibrant communities."
He stated: "I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their background or geographic location, should be able to get the skills and training needed to secure rewarding, well-paid jobs and move up the ladder of opportunity." Stuart added: "This is especially important in South Shropshire, where youth unemployment has sadly increased since the General Election."
In October 2024, there were 1,365 claimants in South Shropshire, which was 2.6% of the population aged 16-64. This includes 220 claimants aged 16-64, which is up 40 claimants since the General Election. Stuart has previously stated that he wants to see this "worrying trend" affecting rural communities like South Shropshire changed for the better.
It is part of Stuart's campaign to unleash rural prosperity in South Shropshire to unlock its full potential. Rural prosperity is about providing opportunity, development and growth for the rural economy. Stuart wants to support fantastic work and training opportunities in South Shropshire locally and in Parliament.
Stuart Anderson MP said:
"I believe that tackling youth unemployment is a matter for the whole of government. So, I was concerned when a constituent contacted me to explain their daughter had been excluded from the Summer Intelligence Internship. This is because their daughter is not, as the online application information requires, from a “a Black, Asian, mixed heritage or ethnic minority background.” On this basis, it appears as though the scheme discriminates against 96% of my constituents in South Shropshire. Notably, many of my constituents face economic disadvantage, so are likely to otherwise have been able to apply. On average, productivity, earnings, and ease of access to further education are all lower in rural areas than urban ones. It also appears as though other routes are not available for students who are not from the specified backgrounds until it comes to applying for jobs as a graduate. So, I have written to the Security Minister in the hope that he will work with me to address these inequalities and barriers to progression."
