Prime Minister Johnson racial inequality commission will examine why white working-class white boys fall behind in school as part of a wider examination of disparities in British society.
Downing Street has said that while race and ethnicity would be the focus of the commission, it will also look at ways to include implementing the Conservatives’ “levelling up” agenda to equalise opportunities for all.
The shadow justice secretary, David Lammy made recommendations based on the findings of previous reviews, some MPs have called on the PM to implement these changes rather than order a whole new review.
Responding to claims that he should be taking action instead of setting up a review, Mr Johnson said: “The whole point of having a review is to look at the areas where people feel there is more to be done.
“We have already acted on the [2017] Lammy Report and we will continue to do more to make sure, for instance, that young black boys that are involved in crime don’t automatically get moved to prosecution, and more BAME groups in the prison service and probation service as well as more body-worn cameras to give people confidence in the criminal justice system.”
The chairman of the commission has not yet been chosen, but sources close to the selection process have suggested a black religious leader could be approached because they would be less likely to draw accusations of political bias.
It has been suggested the Church of England’s first black woman bishop, Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the Bishop of Dover.
A Number 10 spokesman said: “The aim of the commission is to set out a new policy agenda for change, balancing the needs of individuals, communities and society, maximising opportunities and ensuring fairness for all.
“It will look at wider inequalities including issues facing working-class white boys in schools, for example.”
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Editor-in-Chief | Carl D. Pearson has been involved in British politics and media from an early age, with the key knowledge of what it takes to run a news organisation for the 21st century. Mr Pearson, as Editor-in-chief, is responsible for supervising the daily tasks of publishing media and content to UNN’s website and various platforms.
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