People of African Descent in the United Kingdom Debate

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Department: Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities

People of African Descent in the United Kingdom

Lord Sikka Excerpts
Monday 17th April 2023

(1 year ago)

Lords Chamber
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Baroness Scott of Bybrook Portrait Baroness Scott of Bybrook (Con)
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Of course I agree with my noble friend. We are a country that is welcoming and open, and I do not believe it is racist at all.

Lord Sikka Portrait Lord Sikka (Lab)
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My Lords, numerous studies have shown that black African workers in the UK receive lower pay than their white counterparts for exactly the same work. Ethnicity pay gap reporting is a necessary tool for highlighting institutionalised inequities and empowering Governments and people to take action. Therefore, can the Minister explain why this Government oppose ethnicity pay gap reporting?

Baroness Scott of Bybrook Portrait Baroness Scott of Bybrook (Con)
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No one should have to worry that they are not being given the same opportunities as their colleagues at work. That is why the Government have today published guidance to employers on ethnicity pay reporting as part of the Inclusive Britain strategy.