Re: shameful
Like the OP, I wouldn't be happy with this. If it is purely for statistical reasons then there is no reason to tie it to an exam number. The only reason it needs to be tied to an exam number is if the answers are be used, positively or negatively, in determining whether a job is to be offered.
Someone above mentioned that the civil service tries to have a certain % of staff from backgrounds that some people few unfavourably. It's admirable that they don't want to discriminate but IMO, THAT's discrimination. Surely they want the best people for the job, regardless of their background.?
By all means collect the information randomly to ensure the jobs are attracting all types of people but it certainly shouldn't be tied to an exam number.
My 2c.