Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities

Rachel Hopkins Excerpts

Tuesday 20th April 2021 Commons Chamber

[Kemi Badenoch]

Yes, that is absolutely right: I do agree. We need to focus on what works and why, as well as what does not and why, so that we can target our resources where they will be most effective. The report looks at why certain groups that are very similar end up with completely different outcomes, which is why institutional racism cannot be the defining reason. When black African and black Caribbean groups, and Indians and Pakistanis, have diverging outcomes, it is clear that something else is going on. I hope that my hon. Friend will work with Government to try to find out what measures we can put in place to address these disparities.

[Rachel Hopkins (Luton South) (Lab) [V]]

The report talks about creating agency so that individuals can take greater control of decisions that impact their lives. In response, will the Minister recommend that English for speakers of other languages funding, which has been cut by more than 50% since the Conservatives came to power in 2010, be reinstated?

[Kemi Badenoch]

If the hon. Lady has a comprehensive proposal about that, she can write to me and we will consider it in the light of the Government response.