Instep: Having grown up in Doncaster, a town in Yorkshire, what are your memories of life there?

Jane Marriott (JM): Doncaster is an old coal mining town, and both my grandfathers were coal miners. It’s industrial yet charming, with very friendly people, especially in Yorkshire. I didn’t realize how naturally Yorkshire folks talk to anyone until I moved to London. Waiting at a bus stop, you could find yourself engaged in conversation within seconds, even discovering mutual acquaintances. It’s part of what made my childhood feel so connected. My parents left school at 15 and 16 without qualifications, but my dad put himself through night school to become an accountant, eventually moving into middle management. I didn’t realise how fortunate (until later) I was growing up in a loving home, with two parents and a big sister who unconditionally supported me. Not everyone has that, and I see now how rare it is. School was simple but fulfilling; I went to an infant school, a middle school, and then secondary school for ages 13 to 18 in Doncaster. I had a very happy childhood.

Instep: How did you go from a small town like Doncaster to Cambridge and then the Foreign Service? That’s quite a journey!

JM: I didn’t initially consider it possible. My sister was the first person in our extended family to go to university, and I was the first person to get a master’s degree. It was a new generation with opportunities our parents hadn’t had. I thought, “Why not? I’m smart enough,” and applied to Oxford. Although I passed the exams, I was unprepared for the interview—four men lounging around, firing questions at me—and I completely messed it up. Still, I got into Durham University and later pursued my master’s at Cambridge.

Instep: Did you always want to be a diplomat?

JM: Not at all. At 13, I saw BBC journalist Kate Adie covering the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. Crouched under fire, she was reporting on a huge global event. It was a turning point; I hadn’t realized women could be war correspondents, and I decided I wanted to be a journalist. From 13 to 20, I worked part-time at The Times and The Observer, but my mum suggested I should try out for the civil service. At first, I assumed it meant a local benefits office, but I ended up in the Cabinet Office and then discovered the Foreign Office. I realised I had a degree in international relations, and that was when I decided to work there. It was a convoluted journey, but it all came together.

Instep: What unique challenges, did you encounter as a woman working in such diverse and often challenging environments like Yemen, Kenya, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan?

JM: It certainly felt like a “man’s world.” My first posting was in Iraq, where I was one of five women among 1,200 British military men and the only civilian. It was intense, especially negotiating with Iraqis and Marsh Arabs. I felt like this strange third gender—not a man, but not quite ‘female’ in the way they typically viewed women. It sometimes worked to my advantage; people were curious to meet me since they rarely encountered women in those roles. At times, people underestimated me, assuming I wasn’t very capable. But as a diplomat, you’re trained to build trust and keep people’s confidence. I quickly realized I could establish strong networks, which paid off in the long run.

Instep: Do you think being a woman hindered your career in diplomacy?

JM: I can’t compare because I’ve never been a man, but I think it has its pros and cons. I’ve entered rooms where men immediately under-estimated my intelligence due to my gender or ignored my ideas because they were distracted by it. Instead of focusing on these moments, I’ve always tried to make my point firmly and, if necessary, walked out when situations became unacceptable.

Instep: How do you view the relationship between the UK and Pakistan?

JM: The UK-Pakistan relationship feels like a long marriage. We know each other’s flaws and can push each other’s buttons, but there’s also deep affection, respect, and love. This bond isn’t always rational but is rooted in history.

“I’ve always been drawn to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan—his qawwalis have
a timeless quality that transcends cultures. I admire Ali Sethi, Faris Shafi, and the Gharwi Group for their versatility and ability to connect with audiences in so many genres. Pakistan’s music scene is vibrant, spanning folk, classical, and contemporary pop, bringing such rich diversity to the stage.” – Jane Marriott on her favourite
Pakistani artists

As the British High Commissioner, a key part of my role is to nurture this relationship, especially in a frag-mented world. Maintaining a strong and reliable connection is vital during times of global uncertainty. While there are differences—particularly around democracy and media freedoms—we work closely to build trust and have frank, private conversations. Our approach is to keep strong ties with all political parties, which is essential in a democratic setup.

Instep: Do you think art and culture can help bring the UK and Pakistan closer?

JM: Absolutely. Art and culture have strengthened the UK-Pakistan bond. The British Pakistani community plays a significant role in fostering cultural exchange between the two countries, especially in towns like Doncaster, where there’s a rich history of Pakistani communities involved in the cotton and gold sectors.

British TV shows like Doctor Who, Sherlock Holmes, and classic comedies like Mind Your Language, Mr. Bean, Yes Minister and Yes Prime Minister are hugely popular here. British music from Coldplay, Led Zeppelin, One Direction, Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, and Adele, also resonates and has a massive following in Pakistan.

We’re organizing a music event in Karachi, featuring both British and Pakistani talent. There will even be a surprise element as well as a performance with the UK military band playing a rendition of the popular song, ‘Pasoori’. I’m also keen to promote Pakistan in the UK, showcasing its history, culture, and hospitality to counter common stereotypes. There’s so much more to Pakistan than meets the eye.

Instep: Who is your favorite Pakistani artist?

JM: That’s a difficult choice. I’ve always been drawn to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan—his qawwalis have a timeless quality that transcends cultures. I admire Ali Sethi, Faris Shafi, and the Gharwi Group for their versatility and ability to connect with audiences in so many genres. Pakistan’s music scene is vibrant, spanning folk, classical, and contem-porary pop, bringing such rich diversity to the stage.

Instep: Are British Pakistanis contributing to what you call ‘Brilliantly British’?

JM: Definitely. The 1.6 million Brits of Pakistani origin have excelled, particularly in politics, business, and fashion. Figures such as the former First Minister of Scotland and the Mayor of London exemplify the successful integration of British Pakistanis into British society. Talents like Zayn Malik, though perhaps less known in Pakistan than I expected, are key figures. Similarly, actors Jameela Jamil and Riz Ahmed are fantastic ambassadors for British-Pakistani culture.

Beyond entertainment, the diaspora shapes Britain’s landscape in business, academia, and public service. Every field they touch reflects the spirit of diversity, creativity, and shared heritage, showing that being ‘Brilliantly British’ is all about celebrating the stories and talents that connect us.

Instep: We often see Pakistanis on the streets of London, especially when Pakistani politicians or other key figures, like the recently retired chief justice, attend events. Do you believe their actions are creating tensions between Pakistan and Britain, especially with the way these crowds are allowed to take over the streets and gather outside the leaders' residences?

JM: As long as people follow the rule of law, it’s fine for people to express their opinions. However, when it comes to protests outside residences, I think there is a line that should not be crossed. Some protests might create unnecessary tension, but generally, peaceful protests are part of the democratic process. The key is that the protests should be lawful and respectful of public spaces.

Instep: Many Pakistanis aspire to study in the UK, but often face difficulties with the student visa process. Has this process become even more challenging recently?

JM: It’s true that UK education has become more challenging, both financially and visa-wise. However, the number of Pakistani students going to the UK is still impressive. Last year, over 43,000 Pakistani students received visas, and this number is expected to grow. Tuition costs have risen, but UK education is highly valued. There’s also a push for transnational education, where students can earn UK qualifications while staying in Pakistan, making quality education more accessible.

Instep: What are your thoughts on the prospects for Pakistani women to achieve equality and progress in society?

JM: There is a lot of concern about the lack of gender equality in Pakistan. The latest Global Gender Gap Index by the World Economic Forum has placed it near the bottom of the list. I think the country will become much stronger economically if it harnesses the full potential of women. It’s not just about moral equality—it makes economic sense to allow women the same opportunities as men. Whether that’s in business, the workforce, or at home, women deserve equal opportunities to thrive. Pakistan will be stronger for it.

Instep: With the British King’s birthday coming up, what are your thoughts on the transition from Queen Elizabeth II to King Charles III?

JM: It was a big adjustment, especially when it came to singing “God Save the King” instead of “God Save the Queen.” I remember the first time I had to do it in Kenya after Her Majesty passed away. I accidentally said, “God Save Our Gracious Queen,” then quickly corrected myself, which was a bit embarrassing. The Queen was such a steady figure, providing a sense of certainty for so many. Now, with King Charles, we’ve adapted quickly. He’s visited Pakistan before, and there’s a deep respect for him. It’s His Majesty King Charles III’s 76th birthday on November 14th. This year, we’ll be celebrating the King’s birthday in Islamabad and Karachi with a theme of ‘Brilliantly British,’ which will showcase the best of British music, arts, food, and cricket.