§ Mr. ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the level of racial discrimination in the labour market; and if he will make a statement. [4853]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithRecent research and industrial tribunal cases show that racial discrimination in the labour market remains a matter of serious concern.
I deplore racial discrimination and racial harassment. I will ensure that my actions and those of the Department play their part in combating unfair treatment. Current action to promote race equality includes: the work of the Race Relations Employment Advisory Service, DfEE booklets on equal opportunities, and conferences in partnership with the Commission for Racial Equality and other key players.
I am pleased that the Department is setting an example to other employers by becoming a Champion of the Race for Opportunity campaign, promoting racial equality to employers.
I will be meeting Sir Herman Ouseley in the near future to discuss further ways in which the Department can work with the CRE to combat discrimination.