Campaigners slam 'sexism' in the City

Women's rights campaign group The Fawcett Society said the form of client 'entertaining' was widespread, and called for a change in law to brand lap-dancing clubs 'sex encounter establishments' '“ similar to licensed sex shops. The venues currently only require a Premises License, as with pubs and clubs.

The Society's campaigns director, Dr Katherine Rake, said: 'Behind the conspicuous wealth of the City lies a hidden story of disadvantage and discrimination affecting women at every level of business - from the bathroom to the boardroom.

'Women have the right to dignity and respect in their workplaces and in their daily lives. Everyone pays the
price for sexism, so everyone has a role to play in stamping it out.'

A survey of City workers showed that over half of women (59 per cent) '“ and indeed men (52 per cent) '“ believe it is unacceptable for businesses to use 'lap-dance' venues for client entertainment purposes.

Dubbed Sexism and the City, the report also found a 'glass ceiling' remains in terms of women's career prospects and pay in firms, while estimating 30,000 women in the UK lose their jobs every year owing to pregna