Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality has announced the launch of a National Equality Panel, to investigate why inequality still exits in the workplace.

The panel, to go live by the end of 2009, will comprise academics and other experts. It will examine how gender, race, disability, age, where people live, wealth and how family issues affect individual's chances for success.

Professor John Mills will chair the panel and it is hoped it will provide government with an authoritative analysis of inequality in Britain.

Speaking at the Trade Unions Congress, Harman said: "Equality matters more than ever and it is necessary for a peaceful society and a strong economy. The evidence the panel will produce will help us address persisting equality gaps and build on the good work we have already done."