§ Mr. RookerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many racial equality councils have had funding withdrawn in the past year; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydIn this financial year funding has been withdawn by the Commission for Racial Equality from two racial equality councils, Gravesham and Birmingham, after effectiveness reviews. A third, Oldham, has been given notice that its funding will also be withdrawn following a similar review.
As I explained in my letter to the hon. Member of 16 November last, although funded by grant in aid by the Home Office, the Commission for Racial Equality is an independent statutory body, and it would not be appropriate for me to comment on decisions in individual cases such as these.