§ Lembit ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what role his Department envisages for the Racial Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland in the creation of a wider UK National Action Plan against Racism; and if he will make a statement. [167335]
§ Fiona MactaggartThe Government are committed to implementing the outcomes of the Durban World Conference against Racism in a way that makes sense in the UK, given our long track record in tackling racism, inequality and discrimination. Many of the activities identified in the Durban programme of action are already under way throughout the UK.
The Home Office is currently developing a UK strategy on race equality and community cohesion. The Northern Ireland Administration is developing its own race equality strategy in respect of its areas of devolved responsibility, and both parties are working together to ensure coherence between the two strategies. We will continue to consult widely as this work develops. The Government are looking at our Durban commitments as part of our development of the strategy.