Taxpayers still pay for civil servants attending Pride rallies despite crackdown

Government Spending on Pride Events

Official figures reveal that the Cabinet Office spent £3,244 distributed among four separate organizers of LGBTQ+ events across the United Kingdom. The expenses covered participation in Pride rallies and associated diversity events attended by civil servants.

Ministers’ Attempts to Limit Spending

Despite ministers’ calls to reduce or halt spending on diversity initiatives in Whitehall, funding for Pride-related activities continues. The government’s efforts to cut costs and streamline equality budgets have not fully stopped departments from contributing to these events.

Ongoing Debate About Diversity in the Civil Service

The ongoing debate reflects contrasting views within the government. Some ministers argue that public funds should focus exclusively on essential operations, while others maintain that supporting inclusion and representation strengthens workplace culture and public trust.

“This spending demonstrates continuing support for diversity and equality in the civil service,” a Whitehall source stated.

Taxpayer Burden and Transparency

Critics claim that taxpayers are still indirectly funding politically charged events, raising questions about transparency and spending priorities. Campaigners for financial reform in government departments have urged a clear distinction between official representation and personal participation at such rallies.

Author’s summary: The UK Cabinet Office continues modest funding for Pride events despite ministerial pressure to restrict diversity spending, sparking debate over cost priorities and inclusion policies.

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Daily Mail Daily Mail — 2025-11-24

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