Local government minister Phil Hope

The extent of equality and diversity in local authorities varies widely around the country, government-backed research has found.

A survey by the Office of Public Management found that councils focused on issues such as the numbers of disabled and ethnic minority workers, rather than wider issues including gender and sexuality.

And chief executives paid too much attention just to employment issues, found the study.

Although many local authorities employ "diversity officers" there appears to be little work to ensure policies were having an effect, the report concluded.

"Diverse workplaces are an important part of modern local government - and central government too," said local authorities minister Phil Hope.

"We all need to do more to promote these issues. We are not paying lip service to these ideals - we want there to be real change. We want councils to reflect the communities they serve.

"This research provides local authorities with examples of good practice to inspire and inform them. There is some good work being done, and we mustn't forget local government has been at the forefront of the equality and diversity agenda for more than 20 years.

"But there is a lot more that needs to be done. This research shows where action is needed."

A series of seminars will be organised with local authorities based on the findings of the research, Hope added.