The government has revealed its preferred candidate for the new chair of the independent Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson.

The current chair Baroness Kishwer Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025, after being extended an additional year to provide stability while a full recruitment campaign was undertaken.

Dr Stephenson will appear before WESC and JCHR as part of pre-appointment hearings. The committees will provide advice to ministers before she is formally appointed.

The appointment of Dr Stephenson will not impact the timelines or process for the updated statutory code of practice for services currently being developed by the EHRC, the government says.

Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said: “This government is clear that equality and opportunity are at the heart of our programme of national renewal.

“With the depth of her expertise in human rights and equality, Dr Stephenson is exceptionally suited to leading the EHRC and ensuring it continues to uphold the equalities framework in this country.”

Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson said: “I am honoured to be named the government’s preferred candidate to be the new chair for the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

“The EHRC plays an integral role in protecting and advancing equalities and I am deeply committed to furthering this work as chair. With over 30 years working on equalities and human rights, I am confident that I will bring a breadth of experience and insight to the role.

“I look forward to working with the team in the EHRC as well as stakeholders and the government to ensure equalities are upheld and all people are treated with respect and dignity.”