Lib Dems call for Race Equality Strategy

Liberal Democrat Equalities Spokesperson Christine Jardine has called on the UK Government to introduce a Race Equality Strategy to tackle racial injustice.

Speaking in a debate on the effect of COVID-19 on Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Communities, Christine Jardine said the crisis and the disproportionate effect that the pandemic is having on BAME communities had "shone a stark spotlight" on the issue and added "this must be our time for change."

On 14th June, Boris Johnson announced a review into racial inequality in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests. However, further details of the review are yet to be announced. Christine Jardine said this was not enough, stating "what we need now is action".

Christine Jardine, Liberal Democrat Equalities spokesperson said:

"We have reports, reviews and recommendations weighing down the shelves of Whitehall. What we need now is action. If this Government is serious about tackling racial injustice then a Race Equality Strategy for the whole of the United Kingdom is crucial.

"COVID-19 has shone a very stark spotlight on our society and shown, quite clearly, that there are still gaping holes and inequalities that were not just unaddressed, but largely, unacknowledged.

"Our society's acute emotional response to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on BAME communities has been, perhaps, the one saving grace in this shocking failure to protect our communities- so many of whom were at the very forefront of tackling the virus and have paid the ultimate price.

"The commission may be a first step but what it must not be is a way of avoiding tackling the issues that have been brought to light."