I have been interested in tracking the responses to Ray O'Rourke's comments that a building site was not a "place where women fit" (19 May, page 14).

I for one congratulate O'Rourke for speaking his mind on this. Maybe it's time we started to talk about practices that get in the way of performance and embrace the rich diversity of the skills and talents that exist. Who knows, if we did, the UK may retain or improve its ranking of sixth in the world for competitiveness (Deloitte's competitiveness index).

Helping diverse teams to have such a conversation can drastically improve working practice and break down cultural barriers. The result? Individual differences are better understood and respected even when times are really tough.

I wish O'Rourke luck on his recruitment drive - I think he may need it.

Tracy Butterworth, director, Handstand

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