Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps he is taking to address pay grade inflation.

All roles advertised in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) are systematically, objectively, and consistently evaluated to ensure there is a fair basis for determining the grading of a role relative to other roles in the organisation and other government departments. Job evaluation and grading conducted by the FCDO supports high-quality and consistent job design, based on objective evidence. Although 'titles' of roles may vary, grading of a position is determined by the responsibilities and job weighting of the role.

We are also looking at ways of incentivising staff to stay in grade longer by financial and learning and development means. This will allow staff to develop deep knowledge and expertise and ensuring they are ready for promotion and able to perform a full range of roles at the higher grade.