115. By comparison with other countries, the United Kingdom had a very low percentage of women in Parliament. She would like to know the exact percentage of women ministers and what steps the Government was taking to eliminate discrimination in political life. 116. Ms. BERNARD wished to know the percentage of women judges and magistrates in the British judiciary. With respect to the British Virgin Islands, how many women were Permanent Secretaries and heads of department? Also, what were the possibilities for women in terms of upward mobility in the Government and private sectors in the United Kingdom? 117. Ms. SCHOPP-SCHILLING said that certain political parties were implementing a policy of affirmative action for women candidates. She would like more information about those parties and about the results of their efforts. 118. Ms. LAIOU-ANTONIOU said that British women's lack of participation in public life was deplorable. Did the Government have any plans to institute a quota system or other measures to increase women's participation in public life? 119. Ms. UKEJE said that under the Sexual Discrimination Act of 1975, certain civil service posts had been restricted to men. She would like some clarification of that point. She agreed with the previous speaker that the low level of participation by women in public life was a discouraging sign. She also wished to know whether a review had been made of the new appraisal system for civil service promotion. She would appreciate more information on the efforts of the Women's National Commission to assist women in obtaining public appointments. 120. Ms. TALLAWY said she was pleased that the regulation forcing married women to resign from the diplomatic service had been eliminated in 1972. She would appreciate clarification with regard to the joint posting of married diplomats. 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be focused on issues related to women's participation and representation in various sectors of society, including politics, judiciary, and civil service. The speakers are questioning the government's policies and actions to address gender discrimination and promote women's upward mobility.

**Category**
Employment, Humanitarian aid and relief