I think one big problem is the very definition of "equality". Whilst you make some good points, you seem to be looking at statistics and focusing very much on the law of averages (esp the Dave/Mohammed point). I'd suggest that many people who aspire to be, and achieve the goal of becoming a CEO are not average people. Similarly, the UK is not made up of 50% black / mixed race people, so surely the statistic regarding the England football team with more than 50% from this demographic should also be questioned? Sadly, the general media approach to such things is to celebrate it as an achievement, whilst criticising it if the balance if it's the other way. I say "sadly" because it detracts totally from the skill and hard work put in by the players in question.

I believe that in the modern age businesses can't get away with simply promoting people that they like or know, there's simply too much scrutiny. Yes, there will be exceptions, but not at a FTSE100 company. These businesses have shareholders to placate and they rely upon results, so the best person has to be hired. That's not to say they always get it right, but then some people thought The Beatles would come to nothing.

My industry is 70%+ female, but there are more males than females at board level - at the moment. That's because it's a young industry and many companies are still being run by the founders. What does interest me though is that the people who are calling for more female board members (in the interests of "equality") are doing absolutely nothing to recruit more males at any level; it seems "equality" only works one way.

You mention women being offered roles where they're set up to fail; if that role is subsequently taken by a man, the same applies. This skews the occasionally mentioned statistic that companies with women on the board tend to be more successful than those without. Is it OK to say that's because women don't take on the more difficult roles? I don't think so, but you see how such statistics can be twisted to suit a narrative. No CEO role is easy - that's why there are less people seeking them.

Back to the question of "equality". What does it mean to you? It's not a trick question; more an interest which may explain our different opinions on some aspects of this issue.