The Liberal Democrats have announced their plans to tackle issues concerning the UK’s ethnic minority community in a ‘mini manifesto’ launched earlier this week. The document includes sections on housing, liberty & equality and tax, stating how the Lib-Dems aim to address these issues with ethnic minorities in mind.
In the manifesto the Lib-Dems outlined their intentions to ‘outlaw’ discrimination of all kinds, put a stop to unfair stop and search practices and close the pay gap that sees many BAMEs earning far less than their white counterparts.
They also seek to put an end to FGM.
Announcing the mini-manifesto Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said:
“Liberal Democrats believe that no matter who you are, where you come from and whatever your circumstances, you should have the opportunity to fulfil you potential.
“I am proud that Britain today is an open, tolerant country. Our culture and economy is stronger as a result of the diverse range of people who have chosen to make their home here.
“By giving everyone the opportunity to get on in life, we can ensure a competitive economy and fair society that draws on everyone’s talents.
“As the mini-manifesto sets out, the Liberal Democrats will ensure that our liberal commitment to equality runs through every policy area.”
Other measures outlined in the document include:
- Building on the coalition’s BAME Access to Finance report to identify ways to encourage more BAME applicants to apply for finance and set up small businesses.
- Encouraging businesses to ensure at least one place on their board is filled by a BAME candidate.
- Maintain funding for people to develop and improve English language skills to enable them to fulfill their potential.
- Challenge discrimination in the criminal justice system by boosting police recruitment from BAME groups and conducting a full review of the causes of the over-representation of BAME individuals in the criminal justice system
Source: Liberal Democrats
